OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, has encouraged these "Ghiblification" experiments but claims to take a conservative approach by refusing to generate images in the style of living artists. However, the broader use of studio styles remains permitted, leading to debates about whether AI models are trained on copyrighted works without licenses. Legal experts suggest that while "style" itself may not be copyrightable, specific elements of a work could be protected. The article also notes ongoing legal challenges against AI image generators for copyright infringement, emphasizing the tension between technological innovation and the rights of artists.
Key takeaways:
- ChatGPT's new image generator tool allows users to transform photos into Studio Ghibli-style images, raising ethical concerns about AI and copyright.
- Hayao Miyazaki, Studio Ghibli's founder, has previously expressed skepticism about AI's role in animation, calling it an "insult to life itself."
- Legal experts question whether OpenAI has the necessary licenses to train its AI models on Studio Ghibli's work, highlighting potential copyright issues.
- Artists and critics argue that using Ghibli's style without permission exploits the studio's branding and undermines the livelihoods of human artists.