OpenAI’s new image generation tool is making waves on the internet. Users across the globe are experimenting with the Studio Ghibli effect on ChatGPT, turning their photos into anime-style illustrations. This has made the entire Twitter, now known as X, feed look like a comic strip. However, while X is flooded with people sharing Ghibli-style versions of their pictures, the trend has also raised copyright concerns. OpenAI has been accused of using the work of Hayao Miyazaki, the original creator of Studio Ghibli, without his permission.
How did the “Ghiblification” of images start
It all started when OpenAI introduced an image generation tool that allowed users to transform photos and memes into the distinct visual style of Studio Ghibli and its legendary animator, Hayao Miyazaki. Fans were thrilled, creating Ghibli-style versions of everything from personal photos to famous internet memes. Even OpenAI’s CEO, Sam Altman, joined in, updating his social media profile with a Ghibli-style portrait.
OpenAI faces copyright concerns
However, this trend quickly raised concerns about copyright infringement. Emmanuel Sa, co-founder of Sketch, called out OpenAI for using Miyazaki’s work without permission, saying it was unfair that an AI company making billions was profiting from the style of an artist who will likely earn only a fraction of that in his lifetime. “It’s rotten, very rotten,” he said in a viral tweet.
Following the backlash, OpenAI changed its stance, according to Sa’s tweet. While the company previously allowed users to reference Miyazaki or Studio Ghibli in prompts, it now states that such content is copyrighted and cannot be generated.”Open AI as of right now, changed from accepting prompts with Ghibli/Miyazaki to officially say they can't for the content is copyrighted. It doesn't get clearer than that,” Sa tweeted.
The recent controversy has also brought back Miyazaki’s views on AI.The 84-year-old filmmaker, known for his hand-drawn animation and deep storytelling, has been openly critical of AI-generated art. In a 2016 documentary, he called AI-driven animation an “insult to life itself.”
The debate over AI and artistic copyright is far from over. While OpenAI’s policy update is a step toward respecting intellectual property, critics argue that AI companies should be proactive in protecting artists’ rights rather than waiting for public outcry.
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