On the left you see my original multi layered, highly textured painting "Frozen in time". This was created over weeks, not days, and certainly not seconds.
On the right is what I created in my first ever foray into ChatGPT images in around 30 seconds. Does this shock you? It certainly shocked me. It also worried me. If "I" can do this, then anyone can. AI is everywhere these days, and it’s impossible to ignore its impact on the art world. But as artists, should we embrace it as a tool or be wary of its implications? Let’s dive into the conversation.
Can AI Plagiarize Artists?
The short answer? Yes! I mean, look at those two images - The style as well as the colours! Many AI models are trained on massive datasets, often pulling from online images without permission. That means your style, compositions, or even direct works could be used to generate new images - sometimes without your knowledge or consent. While AI doesn’t “copy” in the traditional sense, it can closely mimic an artist’s aesthetic, blurring ethical and legal boundaries.
How Easy Is It to Recreate an Artist’s Style?
Shockingly easy. With just a few prompts, AI can generate work that looks like it was created by a specific artist. Some models can even be trained on a handful of images to produce nearly indistinguishable results. For the AI generated image above all I needed to do was suggest the imagery and colours - nothing more.
Are Artists Getting Ripped Off?
Unfortunately, many are. AI-generated work has been sold under false pretenses, sometimes even using an artist’s name. Without clear copyright protections, it’s a murky legal space that leaves many creatives vulnerable.
Can AI Be a Tool in the Studio?
Absolutely. Many artists are using AI as another design tool - just like Photoshop or digital brushes. AI can assist in:
Generating quick concepts or mood boards
Exploring new compositions and colour palettes
Enhancing textures or refining details
Creating references for paintings, sculptures, or mixed media works
Are Mixed Media and Textural Artists Safe From AI Recreation?
I would obviously like to think so! My most textured artworks add another layer of interest for the viewer, and that all important second read matters to me greatly. I want the viewer to feel invited to step in to take a closer look and to even (dare I say this) touch the surface! AI, at least as it currently exists, will provide an impression of texture but it can't replicate the intricate textures that I, and other artists, create. Although harder for AI to fully replicate, it is however rapidly improving its ability to generate realistic textures. While this may make work harder to fully “steal,” it doesn’t mean us mixed media textural types are completely immune. Sorry :(
Where Do We Go From Here?
AI is here to stay, but how we engage with it as artists is up to us. Whether you choose to integrate it into your process or advocate for stronger protections, the key is staying informed and aware.
Let’s keep the conversation going - how do you feel about AI in the art world?
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