Dec. 19, 2025 — In a poignant letter to the editor, Dain Olsen, president and CEO of the National Association for Media Arts Education, raised critical concerns regarding the impact of artificial intelligence on the creative workforce and education. While technology has historically driven artistic innovation, Olsen argues that the current wave of AI poses unprecedented challenges, particularly in the realm of education and job security for artists.
Olsen pointed out that the advent of AI image generators is fundamentally altering how young students engage with art. For instance, second graders now have access to tools that enable them to create images without ever picking up a pencil. “Across education, students will begin to rely on it for everything, from brainstorming and envisioning to writing, designing, multimedia production, and editing,” he noted. This shift raises questions about the necessity of traditional artistic skills and the potential erosion of creativity among future generations.
As AI continues to integrate into various sectors, job reductions within the creative industries have become a pressing concern. The proliferation of AI technologies threatens to undermine the livelihood of artists, designers, and content creators. Olsen emphasized that the unique moment in society, marked by rapid advancements in AI, requires immediate action to safeguard human artistic capabilities, which he believes could diminish or disappear altogether if current trends continue.
The influence of social media has exacerbated these challenges, according to Olsen. “Due to the proliferation and power of social media, audiences are losing any sense of value of the artistry,” he stated. This cultural shift not only impacts how art is perceived but also affects how it is created. With the rise of AI tools, the essence of artistry—often rooted in human experience and emotion—could be at risk of dilution.
Olsen advocates for a robust commitment to arts education in schools to combat these trends. He cited alarming statistics from Create CA indicating that 89% of schools in California are in violation of education codes regarding the provision of arts instruction. Furthermore, he highlighted that less than 2% of students have access to media arts and literacy programs. “That needs to change,” he urged, calling for a concerted effort to restore and expand arts education, including classes on media arts.
Reflecting on the broader implications of these trends, Olsen’s observations point to a critical intersection of technology and creativity. As AI continues to evolve, it is crucial for educational institutions and policymakers to ensure that students not only adapt to these technologies but also cultivate their unique artistic voices. The future of creativity in society may very well hinge on the choices made today regarding arts education and support for the creative workforce.
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