Hi from a Human

In an era where Artificial Intelligence generates an overwhelming stream of machine-made images, words, and ideas, the unique value of human creativity risks being overshadowed. Hi from a Human was created to offer a clear response: a simple, universal mark that empowers creators to proudly state, “my work is human-made.” 

At its heart, HI - Human Ingenuity, is a mark that reclaims space from AI by emphasising authenticity and originality. Unlike restrictive systems or exclusive design tools, the HI mark is accessible, free to download, and adaptable across creative fields. Available in multiple forms; “Written using Human Ingenuity,” “Created using,” “Designed using”, it gives creative people a shared cultural symbol of trust and integrity while allowing each discipline to adopt it in a way that is personal to their individuality. The impact extends beyond design. By providing a clear and visible way to distinguish human-made work, Hi from a Human raises awareness of the irreplaceable role of human creativity. At a time when originality is under threat, the project helps restore confidence in creative industries while celebrating what only humans can offer: imagination, empathy, and lived experience. Through Instagram and its dedicated website, the initiative has grown into a grassroots creative community, amplifying voices, spotlighting exhibitions, and fostering dialogue through “Out and About” features.

Drawing inspiration from open-source principles, the mark is designed to be taken, adapted, and applied freely, encouraging collective ownership. The strength of the project lies in its simplicity. One small word and symbol: HI, has become a bold, joyful declaration of human ingenuity. More than just a mark, it is a cultural movement that reconnects creativity with humanity and reminds us that what we make by hand, heart, and mind remains uniquely ours.

For us, it was essential that the design complied with the principles of Universal Design. We wanted the brand to be instantly recognisable, attractive and adaptable across multiple creative disciplines. Using straightforward language was essential to reach all people working within the creative industries. Our vision was a brand that would be immediately eye catching with a strong, clear message. Accessibility and ease of use was always at the forefront of this project.

The key features of our design:

A single yet powerful icon, HI, communicates both a greeting and a declaration of origin. Paired with a waving hand, a global sign of welcome and inclusion, and containing the suggestion of a smile, the mark is designed to be instantly approachable, joyful, and human. Flexible, free, and universal, it is accessible to all. To ensure inclusivity, the mark is available to download in multiple forms - “Written,” “Composed,” “Created,” “Designed”- allowing writers, artists, designers, and musicians to claim their work in a way that feels personal, yet collectively unified.

The design embraces a strong, near-monochrome palette with high contrast for clarity and legibility across all conditions. It is lightweight, scalable, and effortless to use, optimised for digital and social platforms while remaining equally effective in print and physical applications. Minimal steps are required to download, place, and share, making it practical even for those with limited technical knowledge.

But Hi from a Human is more than a visual identity. It is a grassroots movement that empowers creators to highlight their ingenuity and originality in their own voice and on their own terms. Through Instagram and the project website, creators showcase their work, share stories, and amplify human-made creativity. Features like “Out and About” spotlight exhibitions and community events, extending the project’s presence offline.

Since its launch in April 2025, the HI mark has been downloaded across disciplines and adopted globally as a badge of authenticity. On Instagram, the project has reached over 249,000 views in 90 days, with creators not only using the mark but also sharing it, turning their posts into collaborative declarations of human originality. Most importantly, it has sparked a cultural conversation, raising awareness of the enduring value of human creativity in an AI-driven world.

What began as a simple design solution has grown into a movement. Hi from a Human demonstrates how strong design can inspire pride, champion authenticity, and reconnect creativity with humanity. With upcoming features in the Financial Times and discussion on RTE Radio, the project continues to expand, uniting a global community that celebrates the uniquely personal heart of human creativity.

https://www.instagram.com/hi_from_a_human/ as of Feb 1st 2026 there are 3,745 followers on our Instagram account