‘Ai is flooding the creative market - so here’s why I’m niching down’

Let me guess, you keep hearing that ‘AI is the future - adapt or get left behind.’ And while there’s a lot of truth to that (Ai can be a helpful tool to work smarter, not harder), I refuse to accept it as the future of a great print design - or any design that truly stands out. Because the brands that thrive aren’t the ones chasing shortcuts, but the ones investing in originality and creativity.

In an era where everything is starting to look and sound the same, I’m getting really serious about my marketing and where I fit within my industry. Im focussed on perfecting my creative handwriting towards brands I’d love to work with; brands who understand that artistry and authenticity equate to value. 

Here are a few myths I’d like to bust, as well as some limiting beliefs that I believe will hold you back when it comes to comparing Ai with human-made art..

‘No one can tell the difference between hand-drawn and Ai’ 

Sorry to burst your bubble, but, THEY CAN. Sure, I’ll admit that you can get some seriously beautiful imagery from Ai, but there’s always something a little off, or that lacks that ‘handmade’ charm. And don’t get me started on the fact it’s scraping every corner of the internet for ideas and plagiarising the work of real artists. 

‘Ai prints are the future, I need to keep up’

Wrong. There will always be a place for print designers who create hand-drawn artwork. In fact, I’d go as far as saying it will be sought out more as the market becomes over-saturated with the same ai slop. Brand owners and print buyers will actively seek out authentic, human-made prints, because originality, artistry, and true connection can’t be automated.

‘Ai-generated prints are good enough, as long as it’s in repeat’

I guess this comes down to the brand and its values, and I’m comfortable knowing that these just aren’t my customers.

However, there is so much more that goes into creating a signature, best-selling print than just putting some pretty images into repeat. When working with a new client, I want to know what makes them tick, their ‘whys’, and what makes their brand unique. Understanding the market you’re designing for is crucial at this stage, as it will determine how we approach the design style, the medium and the colour palette, as well as many other factors. 

Personally, it’s important to work with brands who share similar values as I do; brands who know that the human element of design will elevate their pieces and make them so much more special.

They want quality design over quantity. 

That’s why I’m doubling down on my niche; because whilst Ai can give you lots of ‘good enough’, I want to give my ideal clients a little bit of ‘you won’t find this anywhere else’.

I design prints for fashion and swimwear brands that crave originality through original, trend-driven designs with tons of personality.

Would you love to work with me on creating stunning signature prints that connect with your customers?

Get in touch at studio@karinaduncan.co.uk, tell me all about your ideas and let's get to work on creating prints unique to your brand.