When asked for clarification on Facebook about it, this is what Clara had to say about it. It does indeed sound like there was AI used by artist
Marco Turini. Looking at his recent postings, I can see some possible AI happenings going on:
"I guess you can ask him on his instagram, I havent had a chance to yet. Each artist can choose to use AI art, I wish in this instance it looked more like the work on his account which is more the style I expected. But i's a gorgeous design none the less."
I'm not into the books, and didn't plan on getting this one. But it definitely bugs me to see something like this happening on an official release. Would hope it's corrected, as it's extremely disheartening. So many other talented artists who don't resort to the use of these tools would probably be over the moon for an opportunity to work on an official ALIEN cover.