The surge in AI-generated “Studio Ghibli AI” style images sparks controversy. Critics argue the trend devalues human artistry. Concerns rise over AI’s appropriation of established artistic styles. Many artists label it an “insult” to the dedication and skill behind traditional art forms.
Artists dedicate years to refining their craft, pouring their hearts into every stroke and detail. Hayao Miyazaki, co-founder of Studio Ghibli AI, is one such individual whose works, including Spirited Away and Howl’s Moving Castle, have inspired millions. His influence extends far and wide, even reaching Pakistan, where The Glassworker, the country’s first hand-drawn animated film, took a decade to complete.
However, artificial image generators now threaten this dedication. These tools pull from countless existing visuals without permission, mimicking styles that took decades to perfect. Platforms like Midjourney and DALL-E allow users to generate images in the manner of established creators, completely bypassing the original artists.
Recently, a new trend emerged where users altered their photographs to resemble the signature look of Studio Ghibli. While it may seem harmless, the results lack the soul, effort, and depth that define the studio’s work. Miyazaki’s films are not just about bright colors and charming characters; they carry deep themes. From the devastation of war in Grave of the Fireflies to the struggle for identity in Spirited Away.
Usman Riaz, the creator of The Glassworker, criticized this growing reliance on artificial generation. He states that his film was drawn by hand with no shortcuts. Artists worldwide are taking a stand, sharing their own works inspired by Studio Ghibli while urging others to develop their own skills rather than rely on machine-generated imitations.
What makes this trend even more concerning is how it has been used for political messaging. The White House recently used the style to depict immigration enforcement. Politicians such as Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari altered photographs of their families. These developments demonstrate how machine-generated visuals can be exploited in ways their original creators never intended.
Moreover, an old interview featuring Miyazaki has resurfaced, where he strongly condemned machine-generated visuals, calling them an insult to life itself. His words ring true now more than ever. If people genuinely appreciate the beauty of hand-drawn animation, they should support artists and respect the effort that goes into creating something truly original.
