Artists are poised to experience significant changes due to artificial intelligence (AI) in the coming years. However, the landscape is not uniformly bleak. A coalition of artists has come together to issue an open letter to Congress, advocating for the recognition of generative AI as a beneficial tool. They emphasize that the creative community must be included in discussions regarding how this technology is regulated and defined.
You can find the full letter and list of signatories here. The central message is clear: AI, machine learning, and automated tools have long been integral to the fields of music, art, and other media, and generative AI is simply the latest iteration of these innovations.
As these tools evolve, it is essential that the voices of their users—whether they are software engineers, visual artists, or musicians—are heard during the dialogue about their governance and ethical development.
Here’s an excerpt from the letter:
"Much like previous technological advancements, these tools reduce the barriers to creating art—an endeavor historically accessible only to those with significant financial resources, able bodies, and advantageous social networks.
Sadly, the unique and trailblazing work produced by individual artists is often mischaracterized. Some critics argue that it involves nothing more than typing prompts or recycling existing works. Others dismiss our techniques as mere 'theft' of data. As a result, many artists are hesitant to embrace these innovative tools due to fear of backlash.
Sen. Schumer and Members of Congress, we commend your ongoing efforts, including hearings, 'Insight Forums,' and initiatives aimed at regulating generative AI. Your intention to be inclusive, engaging a diverse array of 'scientists, advocates, and community leaders,' is commendable. However, it is crucial that artists like us are also included in these discussions.
We perceive a unique opportunity to influence the responsible development of generative AI. The widespread concerns about the impact on human artistic labor must not be overlooked. Corporations and powerful entities frequently exploit technology in ways that compromise artists’ livelihoods. If generative AI is to genuinely benefit society, omitting the voices of those who actively create within its framework would be a significant lapse.
These sentiments carry substantial weight, and the government risks sidelining the creator community if it aspires to form a genuinely diverse group to inform its AI policy deliberations.
Nevertheless, despite being framed by Creative Commons, the letter appears to overlook the primary criticism directed at AI systems: these technologies have often been developed through extensive intellectual property (IP) theft, leveraging the work of artists for profit without their permission or compensation. This is a noteworthy omission for an organization committed to addressing the intricate dynamics of digital copyright and licensing.
While some may dismiss AI-assisted art as mere prompt manipulation, many critics express their concerns over the unethical practices of the companies behind these technologies. Regardless of whether the art produced is deemed derivative or original, it raises questions about its legitimacy, given its origins.
Authors have recently expressed similar grievances, demanding that AI companies cease using their works without consent. Artists can and will voice similar objections in any congressional hearings or forums, highlighting how these companies often infringe on copyright protections in ways that violate creators' rights.
We are at the dawn of an AI-influenced era in art and industry, with ample opportunity for both debate and collaboration. Although this open letter represents one perspective, it is crucial, and will likely face considerable counterarguments from artists who feel their experiences or views are misrepresented. As we move forward, the landscape will undoubtedly shift again, and discussions surrounding these topics are far from over.
The journey of AI and its impact on creativity is just beginning, and it will certainly dominate conversations for the foreseeable future.
Ranking
