‘I am not a robot’ by Jaro Kose embraces human creativity in an AI-dominated world

Undoubtedly, the introduction of artificial intelligence has revolutionised many industries and resulted in phenomenal breakthroughs. However, AI battles to replicate the distinctive features that humans bring to the table when it comes to the realm of handcrafted designs. A sense of creativity, intuition, and emotional connection that is strongly established by the human experience permeates handcrafted pieces. While AI is capable of analysing patterns and producing ideas based on data already available, it is unable to think abstractly, escape from predetermined constraints, or include personal narratives and emotions in its designs. AI can't replicate the individuality and flaws that craftsmanship offers to designs since these characteristics result from an artist's individual touch, talent, and personal journey. To challenge this widespread usage of AI in the world of design, product designer Jaro Kose looked into the ways to explore how the human touch can make each design process unique. This exploration brought him to state that as a designer “I am not a robot”, which is also the title of his new lamp design collection. “The rise of AI-generated works has ignited discussions about the future of creativity and the role of humans in shaping design. The I'm not a robot project is exploring ways to highlight the unique qualities that humans bring to the design process,” shares Amsterdam-based Jaro Kose.

Recycled PLA filament and heat combined together create the lighting design pieces for the I am not a robot collection. Made up of sculptural objects, each piece in the collection has a distinct and individual structure. The qualities of artistry, playfulness, unpredictability, and inventiveness that cannot be produced by AI or manufactured by robots are embodied in this process. “This project aims to highlight the difference between robots and humans in product creation,” shares Kose. All the pieces are manufactured from recycled PLA filament that is bent and welded without the need for a 3D printer, utilising a heating mechanism akin to that used in 3D printing. Each design is distinct, proving that these human values are essential to the design process and cannot be produced by AI or machines. It serves as a reminder that although technology may assist in the design process, ultimately, it is the human touch that truly defines and differentiates a product design.

With human creativity at the heart of the project, I am not a robot questions – What does it mean to be human? And What does it mean to ‘design’ as a human? “Human creativity is at the heart of the I am not a robot project, which began in my Amsterdam studio. This project is meant for all individuals seeking their voice in a future world shaped by AI. It highlights the importance of human values in product creation,” answers Kose. The I am not a robot lamps' lack of accuracy, imperfections, and humanness are what make them a work of art. Three different versions of lamps were created by Kose for the collection, all of which were inspired by old Victorian lights. The two table lamps are accompanied by an intricately designed chandelier.

While AI can help with some aspects of the creative process, such as idea generation or automating tedious tasks, it is human creativity, emotional complexity, and cultural context that will continue to distinguish handcrafted designs as a testament to the special qualities that only humans can provide. The I am not a robot collection is an effective demonstration of the continued value of human creativity in an increasingly AI-dominated world.

Text by Ria Jha