The recent surge in AI-generated images of people as dolls has spurred a significant backlash from real artists who fear for their craft and careers. Since April, numerous individuals have shared their photos to create DIY doll images using AI tools, despite concerns about environmental impacts, privacy issues, and the dilution of artistic value.
Nick Lavellee, a custom action figure artist with six years of experience, expressed worries about his work's relevance in a world saturated with AI art. "It's an artistic aesthetic—AI-generated art diminishes that," he said, reflecting a sentiment echoed by many in the creative community. His handcrafted figures, often sold online for around $250, might compete with the avalanche of computer-generated images detracting from his unique offerings.
This discontent has spurred the #StarterPackNoAI movement across platforms like Instagram and X, where artists are promoting their handcrafted works. Maria Picassó Piquer, an artist, noted the distinctiveness and humanity in human-created pieces compared to the sameness of AI outputs.
Others, like illustrator Dav le Dessineux, highlighted direct losses in contracts due to the rise of AI art design, emphasizing the simplicity of traditional artistic tools as essential for originality. Eli Dibitonto from Italy described the joy of creating his own starter pack piece, emphasizing that art is not about perfection but expression.
While some validate AI's potential as a tool, artists urge caution. Henk van Ess, a global expert in AI, criticized the focus on trivial applications of the technology, arguing it misses the opportunity for solving pressing issues.
Despite the challenges, artists remain hopeful. Nick believes true art will always resonate with audiences, while Dav maintains that handcrafted items will continue to hold their value. The artists collectively wish for an appreciation of their personal touch over mechanical replication, advocating for a celebration of human creativity in the age of AI.
