The Art World Takes on Tech: Artists Consider Legal Action Against AI Firm Midjourney
The emergence of AI-powered image generators like Midjourney has left artists questioning whether it is a great opportunity or an existential threat. Now, a list of 16,000 names of artists allegedly used by Midjourney to train its AI has prompted the art world to issue a call to arms against the technologists. British artists are considering joining a class action against Midjourney and other AI firms, while others may bring their own legal actions in the UK.
Artists Unite in Battle Against AI Giants
Leading artists, including internationally acclaimed photographer Tim Flach, have expressed their desire to come together to challenge AI companies using their work. Flach’s name is on a list of 16,000 artists that forms part of a class action against Midjourney, Stability AI, Runway AI, and DeviantArt. UK artists have already contacted US lawyers to discuss joining the lawsuit.
Allegations of Copyright Infringement Fuel Artists’ Anger
AI image products are seen as copyright-laundering devices, allowing customers to benefit from art without compensating the artists, states the complaint submitted against the AI firms. Midjourney, in particular, has raised concerns among artists as it generates images that closely resemble their original works, effectively copying their style. Furthermore, the software allows users to specify an artist’s style, which has raised accusations of impersonation and robbing artists of their livelihoods.
Artists Demand Regulation of AI Tech
A recent survey conducted by the Design and Artists Copyright Society (DACS) revealed that 89% of artists and agents want the government to regulate generative AI. Already, 22% of the survey respondents discovered that their own work had been used to train AI without their permission. DACS is pushing for a licensing system, similar to the royalties paid by music streaming platforms, to ensure artists are compensated for the use of their work.
Tech Companies Given Deadline to Respond
Midjourney and the other tech firms implicated in the class action have until 8 February to respond to the allegations against them. Midjourney has yet to comment.
AI Art – An Opportunity or a Threat?
While some artists are vehemently opposing the use of AI to generate art, others view it as an opportunity. The debate highlights the blurred line between inspiration and plagiarism. Sci-fi artist Chris Foss, whose work has been imitated by AI generators, sees the potential benefits of AI in solving artistic problems and considers incorporating AI-generated art in his own work.
The battle between artists and AI firms continues to raise questions about the ethics and legalities of utilizing AI-generated art without artist consent. As more artists join the fight, the art world calls for regulation to protect the creative industry from copyright infringement.
Analyst comment
Positive news: The art world unites to challenge AI firms over alleged copyright infringement, with leading artists considering legal action. Artists demand regulation of AI technology and a licensing system to ensure fair compensation for their work. Tech companies have until 8 February to respond to the allegations. The debate raises questions about the ethics and legalities of AI-generated art.
