A recent industry survey in Japan has revealed that a significant number of artists in the country are anxious about the growing presence of generative artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential infringement on copyright, according to a report by Japan Times.
The survey, conducted online in May, garnered nearly 27,000 responses from a diverse group of creators, including illustrators, photographers, and writers.
KETTERING, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 25: A Manga screensaver is seen as Esport competitors take part in a gaming tournament at the Epic.Lan 38 event on February 25, 2023 in Kettering, England. The tournament sees teams, or "clans" proceed through the competition before taking the title, in games such as Team Fortress 2, Valorant, CounterStrike:Global Offensive and Overwatch 2. The four-day event takes place three times a year, with a prize fund of £3750.
Artists Express Concerns About AI
The results indicated that 93.8 percent of respondents expressed worries about copyright infringement, while 58.5 percent voiced concerns about the possibility of losing their jobs.
Some artists disclosed that their contracts had already been terminated, citing the rationale that AI can instantaneously produce images. One creator stated, "I was cut off from my contract because I was told AI can generate pictures instantly."
Moreover, numerous respondents reported instances where their artistic works were used without permission, leaving them feeling helpless and disillusioned.
Furthermore, creators drew attention to the utilization of illicit websites that unlawfully store copyrighted material, which developers subsequently employ as training data for their AI models.
They called for a revision of copyright laws to address provisions that allow AI models to employ copyrighted works without obtaining proper permission during the development stage.
Arts Workers Japan, the organization responsible for conducting the survey, has been actively advocating for improved AI regulation from the government.
This association comprises a diverse range of artists, encompassing actors, musicians, and decorative artists, all unified in their pursuit of safeguarding their creative livelihoods.
Japan's Art Industry
Japan's arts industry, particularly in the realms of manga and anime, has long been renowned for its creativity and global influence.
These cultural exports have captured the imaginations of audiences worldwide, contributing significantly to Japan's soft power and economic growth.
Manga and anime have become iconic symbols of Japanese pop culture, with a dedicated fan base that spans across different age groups and demographics.
The advent of AI technology has introduced both excitement and trepidation within the artistic community. On one hand, AI has the potential to enhance and streamline certain aspects of the creative process.
However, alongside these opportunities, concerns about the encroachment of AI on artistic expression and originality have emerged.
The use of AI-generated content, including AI-authored stories and AI-assisted artwork, raises questions about the authenticity and human touch that make manga and anime so distinctive.
The response from artists underscores the urgency for comprehensive regulation and safeguards against AI encroachment on the creative domain.
As the prevalence of AI continues to grow, there is an inherent need for mechanisms to protect artists' intellectual property rights and ensure their continued contribution to the vibrant artistic landscape of Japan
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