Study Finds Generative AI Reshapes Artists' Tasks Without Cutting 2017-2024 Jobs or Wages
Updated
Updated · news.wpcarey.asu.edu · Aug 24
Study Finds Generative AI Reshapes Artists' Tasks Without Cutting 2017-2024 Jobs or Wages
3 articles · Updated · news.wpcarey.asu.edu · Aug 24
Summary
U.S. data from 2017 to 2024 showed little evidence that generative AI reduced artists' employment or wages after ChatGPT's arrival, according to research by Christos Makridis.
Artists were more likely than the broader workforce to use AI for idea generation, basic tasks and learning, suggesting the technology is changing task mix more than eliminating occupations.
Gallup workplace data and occupation-level exposure to large language models also pointed to a slightly positive link with earnings, though Makridis said the estimates carried high statistical uncertainty.
Beyond the arts, Makridis said AI-exposed industries have posted gains in wages, employment, output and productivity, while finance-sector frequent AI use rose from about 8% to around 40% in 2025.
The study frames the findings as early evidence for cautious optimism, while warning that effects could shift as generative AI adoption deepens and employers rethink productivity metrics and management.