The Ghibli Craze: A New AI Trend Takes Hold

A new wave of AI-generated art is sweeping the internet, with OpenAI’s ChatGPT leading the charge. The latest trend involves transforming photos and memes into the distinctive style of Studio Ghibli, the renowned Japanese animation studio behind classics like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. This “ghiblification” of images has captivated users, leading to a surge of AI-generated artwork across social media platforms.

Chayanne’s AI Avatar: A Mixed Reception

Even celebrities are getting in on the action. Puerto Rican singer Chayanne recently shared AI-generated cartoon versions of himself on social media, created using DALL-E, another AI image generator. However, the response from his fans was mixed. While some praised the AI art, manny expressed their preference for the “flesh and blood” Chayanne.

In all ways you are gorgeous

Even in Comiquita you are beautiful

You are prettier without cartoon

Comments from Chayanne’s Instagram post

These comments highlight a growing sentiment: while AI art can be intriguing, it often fails to capture the essence and appeal of human artistry.

Ethical Concerns and Copyright Implications

The rise of AI-generated art, particularly in mimicking specific artistic styles, has ignited a debate about copyright and the future of creative work. The core issue revolves around whether AI models are trained on copyrighted material without proper licensing or permission. Josh Weigensberg, a partner at the law firm Pryor Cashman, raises a critical question: Well, do they have a license or permission to do that training or not?

openai has implemented some safeguards, such as refusals to generate images in the style of living artists. However,the company allows for broader stylistic studies,leading to the widespread creation of Ghibli-inspired images. This raises concerns about the potential for AI to devalue the work of human artists and erode copyright protections.

Miyazaki’s Skepticism: A Humanist Perspective

Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary co-founder of Studio Ghibli, has long expressed skepticism about the role of AI in animation. In 2016,after viewing a exhibition of AI-generated animation,Miyazaki stated he was totally disgusted. He further elaborated, stating:

I feel strongly that this is an insult to life itself.

hayao Miyazaki

Miyazaki’s concerns stem from a deep-seated belief in the importance of human experience and emotion in art. He argues that AI, lacking the capacity for empathy and understanding, cannot truly replicate the depth and meaning of human-created works. His perspective resonates with many who fear that AI-generated art will ultimately diminish the value of human creativity.

The Future of Art: AI as Tool or Threat?

The debate surrounding AI-generated art is far from settled. While some view AI as a powerful tool that can enhance creativity and democratize art creation, others see it as a threat to the livelihoods and artistic integrity of human artists. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is crucial to address the ethical and legal challenges it presents, ensuring that the rights of artists are protected and that the value of human creativity is preserved. The current global art market is estimated at $65 billion, and the impact of AI on this market is only beginning to be understood. Further discussion and regulation are needed to navigate this complex landscape.