Mindsets and Misconceptions on AI with Dré Labre, Future Creative & Co-founder of Never

In a recent Futurespaces talk, Dré Labre, co-founder of Never (short for The Department of Never Been Done Before), shared a thoughtful and energetic exploration of how AI intersects with creativity, innovation, and professional growth. Drawing from his experience as a creative technologist, director, and AI innovator, Dré offered both practical advice and philosophical reflections on embracing AI as a creative tool and companion.

Key Ideas from Dré’s Talk:

• Continuous Adaptation Is Key: Early adoption and evolving alongside emerging AI technologies offer a distinct advantage. Waiting for tech to “be good enough” often means missing the most formative opportunities.

• Human + AI Collaboration: Dré emphasized being a “human in the loop” rather than a “human in the way,” likening working with AI to directing creative collaborators — with the right prompts and feedback, AI can improve iteratively.

• Taste, Judgment, and Intention Matter Most: AI doesn’t make someone creative; it amplifies existing skills. Strong creative foundations are essential for meaningful and resonant AI-assisted work.

• Poetry and Programming: Great prompting is an art form, balancing the emotional nuance of poetry with the structured problem-solving mindset of programming.

• AI as Brush, Tool, and Companion: Rather than viewing AI as a shortcut or threat, Dré frames it as a dynamic partner in the creative process, capable of producing surprising and sometimes superior results through “happy accidents.”

Memorable Quotes from Dré Labre:

• “If you’re waiting for tech to be good enough before jumping in, you’re already too late.”

• “Artists aren’t being replaced — they are being re-armed.”

• “Prompt engineering is when imagination finds structure, and structure finds the right words — not to express what you already know, but to explore what you’re still figuring out.”

Final Thoughts

Dré’s session was an inspiring reminder that AI’s real power lies not in replacing creatives, but in offering them new tools to expand their capabilities, explore new aesthetics, and keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Want to dive deeper? [Watch the full recording here] and experience Dré’s energy, insights, and optimism firsthand!