OpenAI's GPT-4o can generate highly realistic images, including styles like Studio Ghibli's anime. This has led to a surge of Ghibli-esque images online, raising questions about art, authenticity, and copyright.
The ease of replicating Ghibli's style raises concerns about the value of original art and the potential for copyright infringement. While OpenAI argues that copying a studio's style is permissible, lawsuits are ongoing regarding AI's use of artists' work. A key point is that AI-generated art itself cannot be copyrighted.
Hayao Miyazaki, the legendary director of Studio Ghibli, is a known critic of AI technology, viewing it as an 'insult to life itself'. The use of his studio's style in AI-generated images is ironic and potentially problematic.
The article concludes by contrasting the easily replicated AI images with Miyazaki's latest film, which features a unique artistic style. It suggests that art's ability to delve into deeper, ineffable aspects of human experience can be a response to technological challenges. The author expresses concern not for artists, but for audiences who might become complacent with easily-produced imitations.