I've been a post-Dada vanguard artist for 30 years. Do what speaks to you, what saves you time and works for you.
There isn't an actual artist with any skill anywhere that's going to seek toxic validation, especially against AI. The simple fact that they consider you a threat because of your tool choices speaks volumes about them and their skills, and nothing about yours.
Actual artists understand that art is about human connection. Bullying strangers is not that. It's antithetical to the core values of art, and they know it.
They hope you don't.
Keep spreading your joy and light.
Make the art that lives under your eyelids when you sleep at night.
Love you.