CASSANDRAPFAFF

CASE STUDY :
  AI AS A CREATIVE PARTNER

THE CHALLENGE

As generative AI tools like Adobe Firefly become more accessible, I wanted to explore how they could support the creative process without replacing original design work. The goal was to create a new vintage-inspired illustration featuring Zippo's iconic Windy character while staying true to the hand-drawn style and personality of an existing product imprint design.
 

Rather than recreating existing artwork, the challenge was to blend multiple visual references into a cohesive, brand-relevant concept.

THE PROCESS

I started with an original illustration that served as the primary style reference, providing the linework, graphic treatment, and vintage carnival aesthetic. To expand the concept, I introduced two additional references: a vintage sideshow fire-eater banner for color, mood, and poster styling, and a historic Zippo advertisement featuring Windy as the subject matter.
 

Using Adobe Firefly, I combined these references through a series of detailed prompts, directing the AI to merge the established illustration style, retro color palette, and carnival-inspired atmosphere into a new composition. Multiple iterations were explored to refine the balance between style, content, and authenticity.

​THE RESULT

The resulting artwork reimagined Windy as a carnival fire eater, combining the bold graphic style of the original illustration with the visual character of a vintage sideshow poster. Retro typography, a limited color palette, and distressed textures helped reinforce the nostalgic aesthetic.
 

While some elements would require additional refinement, the project demonstrated how generative AI can function as a creative exploration tool, helping designers generate new concepts while maintaining a recognizable brand style.
 

The exercise also highlighted both the strengths and limitations of AI-generated imagery, showing how thoughtful art direction, strong reference materials, and detailed prompting can produce cohesive, brand-aligned creative outcomes.