In a surprising demonstration of solidarity, many artists on the popular online platform, ArtStation, have staged a large-scale protest against the use of AI-generated artwork. Over the past several months, the platform has been infused with a range of computer-generated creations, ranging from 3D models and renders, to video game and virtual reality projects. Many ArtStation artists feel that the use of AI-generated artwork is a threat to their livelihoods and the art industry as a whole.
At the forefront of this protest is a small but vocal group of artists who are calling for greater transparency and control over the use of AI-generated art on ArtStation. This vocal minority, the “AI-Critics’s”, feels that the use of AI robs art of its character, personality, and most significantly, the effort of the artist. As ArtStation is an art platform, tailored and curated towards a specific community of artists, the AI-Critics have argued that a more suitable and creative approach must be taken to reflect the community’s values, creating greater artistic competition and opportunity.
To further their cause, the AI-Critics are heavily relying on social media and digital art forums to amplify their message, raise awareness of the issue, and gather support from a larger community of artists. Additionally, they developed a website that provides information, support, and ways to get involved in their cause. The outcome of the efforts of the AI-Critics remains to be seen; however, their rallying cry has been heard loud and clear within the artistic community.
Furthermore, ArtStation has recently commented on the controversy, delineating steps towards a compromise. The platform’s CEO, Shahan Panth, has stated its commitment to the protesters’ cause and aim to firmly establish its Trust & Safety Rules & Guidelines to an even greater extent. He emphasizes that “[ArtStation] will ensure that AI generated paintings won’t be featured on our home page and that the algorithms churning out these works aren’t allowed to compete in the same space as a human-made artwork.”
While this will likely appease some of the protesters’ demand, the AI-Critics have expressed that they won’t accept anything less than complete control and transparency over the usage of AI in artwork. Despite the various opinions on the matter, the events over the past few weeks have been monumental for the art industry as a whole, with a mass demonstration of solidarity from the artistic community. Only time will tell how ArtStation will address these issues, but it is clear that the AI-Critics are not going away quietly.
