As part of DataFest Tbilisi, BBC Monitoring journalist Sandro Gvintadze conducted a workshop on creating documentary comics using artificial intelligence. He noted that it takes an average of 24 hours to create a single-page comic.
Despite the capabilities of the technology, the process is not fully automated: it requires overseeing the creation of thousands of images and refining their details.
"If you cannot draw or do not have the means to hire an artist, this can be a viable solution, but it demands considerable effort. AI does not perform miracles," Sandro said. He illustrated his experience using his work titled "How the Georgian Police Suppressed Pro-European Demonstrations."
According to Sandro, ensuring the reliability and authenticity of the imagery is crucial. Each character is transformed into digital art based on primary sources, such as photographs.
To maintain accuracy, all details including clothing, accessories, the placement of objects, emotions, and even the camera style must be explicitly depicted. Sandro emphasized that when working with real individuals, obtaining their full consent is essential, especially if the events are traumatic.
"If someone does not give consent, the project is halted. We cannot use AI in cases involving violence or trauma without permission," he stated.
Audiences reading or viewing comics created with AI need to understand that the images are AI-generated and not real photographs or videos. This transparency helps maintain audience trust, distinguish facts from visual interpretations, and protect against accusations of misinformation.
Sandro uses several tools while creating comics. Additionally, he recommended considering the following aspects when working with AI: images often require reprocessing to make details, such as clothing, accessories, or facial expressions, more precise.
Accuracy and ethics are of paramount importance: if someone was beaten or harmed, the events must not be dramatized or exaggerated for effect. All details must align with the truth.
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