Baltimore’s most‑acclaimed editorial cartoonist, two‑time Pulitzer finalist Kevin Kallaugher—known professionally as KAL—has publicly condemned the Baltimore Sun’s recent use of an artificial‑intelligence generated illustration. The AI cartoon depicted Mayor Brandon Scott receiving sarcastic praise from a group representing Fells Point business owners, a scene many readers found both juvenile and misleading.
Industry backlash
The illustration sparked immediate criticism from the American Association of Editorial Cartoonists. In an open letter to the Sun’s publisher and editors, association president Marc Murphy called for the newspaper to reverse course and abandon AI for cartoons and editorial content, citing “creative and moral reasons.” Murphy argued that the AI piece signaled the Sun’s surrender of its claim to journalistic legitimacy.
KAL’s concerns
In an interview with the Baltimore Fishbowl, KAL explained why the AI cartoon crossed a line. He said the Sun’s decision appears to be a top‑down directive, turning a creative function into a routine machine task. “It’s the first case in American journalism where AI cartoons have basically become part of a publication’s repertoire,” he noted, adding that the move threatens the livelihood of professional cartoonists.
KAL also described the artistic shortcomings of the AI image. He likened it to a “mushy 1960s pastiche,” a blend of countless existing cartoons that lacks individuality. “A machine merges signatures together and pushes out something that says ‘This is my signature,’ but it has none of the personal touch,” he said.
When AI might help
While condemning the Sun’s use of AI for editorial cartoons, KAL acknowledged that the technology could serve as a reference tool for artists. He explained that AI can quickly generate reference images—such as a specific angle of a public figure or a sunset over Baltimore—saving time on research. However, he stressed that any AI‑generated reference should be used only as a guide, not as the final artwork.
KAL also speculated about future applications for lengthy projects, such as a graphic novel he is developing. He suggested that AI could potentially assist in coloring or background generation, provided it remains a supportive aid rather than a replacement for the artist’s hand.
Broader implications
The controversy highlights a growing tension between traditional artistic craftsmanship and emerging digital tools. As newsrooms face budget pressures and deadline demands, some are turning to AI to cut costs. Critics argue this trend erodes the unique voice and accountability that human creators bring to public discourse.
For Baltimore readers, the episode serves as a reminder to scrutinize how local media adopt new technologies. The Sun has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Original reporting: Baltimore Fishbowl — read the source article.
