An Exploration of How AI-Generated Visuals Shape Creative Practices of Illustrators in Sri Lankan Print Media

Abstract

This study explores how AI generated visuals are shaping the creative practices of illustrators working in Sri Lankan print media, with special focus on Colombo District based organizations. The rapid growth of artificial intelligence tools has created many changes in creative industries around the world. However, there is limited research about how these changes are experienced by illustrators in Sri Lanka, especially in print media environments. The central question guiding this research is: How do AI-generated visuals shape the creative practices of illustrators in Sri Lankan print media? The study aimed to understand how illus trators use AI tools in their daily work, how AI affects creativity and originality, and how creative workflows are changing. The study used a qualitative research approach. Data was collected through twelve semi structured interviews and one focus group discussion with professional illustrators and graphic designers working in print media organizations in Colombo District. Illustrators were selected using purposive sampling because they had direct experience with AI-generated visual tools. The collected data was analyzed using thematic analysis, guided by Sociotechnical Systems Theory. The findings showed that AI is mainly used as a support tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. Most Illustrator used AI during idea generation, concept development, and reference searching because it helps save time and improve efficiency. At the same time, Illustrator said that human skills, creative thinking, and final editing are still very important for professional quality work. Many Illustrators also explained that too much dependence on AI may reduce original thinking and deep creative exploration. Another important finding was that AI tools often struggle to accurately represent Sri Lankan cultural elements, traditions, and local visual identity. Because of this, designers still need to manually correct and improve many AI generated outputs. Illustrator also shared mixed views about authorship and ownership, but most felt that ownership remains with the designer when the original concept and direction come from the human creator. Overall, the study concludes that AI is changing the creative practices of illustrators in Sri Lankan print media in both positive and challenging ways. AI works best when it supports human creativity rather than replacing it. The study contributes to a better understanding of AI use in Sri Lanka’s creative industry and may be useful for designers, educators, organizations, and future researchers.