Mallory Jablonski Explores AI's Role in Creative Work During Summer Research
This past summer, Mallory Jablonski from Gainesville, Florida, dedicated her time at Valdosta State University to studying how artificial intelligence influences the creative process. As a graphic design student, she questions whether AI can fully address the creative needs of individuals or companies, pointing out that AI lacks the personal touch and emotional depth that human creativity brings.
“As a designer, I value the human interaction, intent, and emotion behind meaningful art,” Jablonski said. “AI-generated content often misses the complexity, originality, and meaning that artists provide.”
Advocating for Artistic Authorship
With AI becoming common in many fields, Jablonski wants her research to support keeping artistic authorship in human hands. Her project, "The Unreliable Resource: Is AI the Artist or an Artistic Tool?", was selected for the 2025 Blazer Summer Research Institute. She received a $1,000 scholarship and funding for research-related expenses.
The Blazer Summer Research Institute is a competitive program that pairs faculty and undergraduate students to conduct hands-on research with real-world implications. Supported by Valdosta State University's Division of Academic Affairs, University Advancement, and private donors, the program encourages deep inquiry beyond classroom studies.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Jablonski credits the experience with teaching her soft skills like adaptability, patience, and communication. She shared, “My expectations shifted multiple times during the research, which required me to adjust quickly and explain my findings to researchers who aren’t artists.”
She plans to earn her Bachelor of Arts in Art with a focus on graphic design by May 2026. Jablonski appreciates the university’s investment in expanding student learning through research opportunities.
Faculty Perspective on Student Research
Evelyn Davis-Walker, associate professor of graphic design and Jablonski’s mentor, emphasizes that undergraduate research opens new paths for inquiry beyond traditional classes. “Our collaboration goes beyond scheduled class meetings. We communicate at all hours with varying momentum,” she said.
Davis-Walker believes the Blazer Summer Research Institute equips students like Jablonski with skills to become lifelong learners and effective problem solvers.
Learn More
- AI Tools for Generative Art – Explore AI tools relevant to creative professionals.
- Prompt Engineering Courses – Learn how to effectively use AI prompts in creative workflows.
For creatives interested in the intersection of AI and design, understanding both the capabilities and limitations of AI is key to maintaining originality and depth in artistic work.
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