Colossal Editorial Director Grace Ebert Defends Human-Made Art Against AI in Open Letter
In a letter titled "Art by Humans, For Humans," Grace Ebert, the editorial director of Colossal, contends that AI poses a significant threat to both artists' livelihoods and human creativity. This letter is a response to a New York Times article from September 13, 2026, in which 10-year-olds envisioned life in 2050, often referencing AI. Ebert contrasts various future scenarios, including the possibility of a female U.S. president and the specter of world wars. She warns about the swift advancement of AI and its potential risks to artists, questioning the implications of outsourcing art. Colossal, managed by a four-member team without AI, values human creativity and has thrived for 16 years, with Ebert urging readers to support the magazine's future. The letter ends with "Yours in hope."
Key facts
- Grace Ebert is the editorial director of Colossal.
- The letter is titled "Art by Humans, For Humans."
- The New York Times asked dozens of 10-year-olds to predict the world in 2050 on September 13, 2026.
- Children's predictions included a female U.S. president, world wars, monarchic rule, embedded brain sensors, and the end of civilization.
- AI was mentioned repeatedly by the children as an inextricable part of future life.
- Colossal operates with a team of four people and does not use algorithms or AI models.
- Less than 0.5% of Colossal's weekly readership financially contributes; increasing to 1% would ensure long-term survival.
- Colossal has been publishing for 16 years.
Entities
Artists
- Grace Ebert
Institutions
- Colossal
- The New York Times
Locations
- United States