Creative Work in the Era of AI: Protecting Well-Being and Identity
April 30, 2026 | 1-2 pm ET | 10-11 am PT | Zoom
This workshop is presented in partnership with the Artists’ Health Centre.
Overview
The rapid rise of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) is transforming creative industries around the world. While some artists are exploring new possibilities with these tools, many are also experiencing uncertainty, stress, and difficult questions about authorship, identity, and the future of creative work.
This interactive workshop, presented in partnership with the Artists’ Health Centre, University Health Network, is designed to support artists and creative workers as they navigate these changes. Together, we will explore why technological disruption can feel particularly challenging for creative professionals, and discuss practical strategies for protecting well-being, maintaining creative identity, and sustaining artistic practice during periods of rapid industry change.
Participants will be guided through reflective exercises that help normalize common emotional responses to disruption while highlighting ways artists can regain a sense of agency and resilience.
Whether you are feeling curious, concerned, overwhelmed, or simply trying to make sense of what AI means for your creative future, this workshop offers a supportive space for reflecting and grounding.
Who Should Attend
This workshop is for artists, performers, writers, designers, and other creative professionals who are feeling the impact of AI on their work and mental health.
Key Takeaways
- Explore why generative AI and technological change can feel challenging for creative professionals.
- Discuss practical strategies to protect well-being and maintain creative identity.
- Normalize common emotional responses to industry disruption.
- Explore ways to build resilience and sustain artistic practice during change.
Important Note
Our workshops are intended to provide general information and strategies and do not offer personalized advice. The expert may not be able to answer all the questions from participants.
Accessibility
ASL interpretation, closed captions, and translated captions (35 languages) are available. If you require additional accommodations to make this event accessible for you, please get in touch, and we will do our best to meet your needs.
Recording
This event will be recorded. The link to the replay will be provided to all who sign up.
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Facilitator Bio
Dr. Shelly-Anne Li (she/her) is the Director and Scientist of Research & Community Engagement at The Artists’ Health Centre, University Health Network, and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Family & Community Medicine at the University of Toronto.
At the Centre, Dr. Li develops and evaluates interventions and programs aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of artists, improving access to healthcare, and translating research into practice through health professions education and community engagement. She is deeply committed to sharing research and knowledge with arts communities, empowering artists to advocate for and champion their own health and well-being.
About the Artists’ Health Centre
The Artists’ Health Centre at University Health Network provides specialized healthcare services for artists across all disciplines, as well as for arts students and educators. It is the only clinic of its kind in Canada dedicated to addressing the unique health needs of artists.
In addition to clinical care, the Centre has a broad mandate that includes research, education, and engagement with the arts community. Through its work, the Centre strives to better understand the physical, mental, and occupational health challenges faced by artists in order to deliver evidence-based, artist-centred care.
The Centre also advocates for artists’ health and well-being through a subsidized healthcare program that covers 75% of non-insured healthcare costs for eligible artists, helping reduce financial barriers to care. The Centre offers free health education workshops and resources that are widely attended by artists locally and around the world.
