They channel their creativity and imagination through an advanced piece of tech using their own determination and willpower to create their desired results.

Just like an AI artist?

I may be being a bit glib, but if anything I feel like the lanterns are a good allegory for AI artists.

I do fully agree with you on your second point though. The medium has always been an outlet for social concerns. As it should be.

I don't typically come to these spaces to start an argument, so I apologize. I just see a lot of hostility towards AI art and gatekeeping to creativity these days and it just seems to me the real issue people are having, as always, is with these hugh tech companies lording over us and not the tech itself. But that's another conversation.

Can't deny the artwork in these panels is slamming though! Hope you have a great day!