Artists in the UK are raising alarms over proposed changes to copyright laws that could allow artificial intelligence (AI) companies to train their models on creative works without explicit permission. The government suggests an «opt-out» system, but many in the creative sector see this as a serious threat to their livelihoods.
Artists Push Back Against AI Training on Their Work
Under current copyright laws, artists automatically own the rights to their creations. The proposed shift would mean that unless artists actively opt out, their work could be freely used to train AI models. Sarah McIntyre, an illustrator from Bovey Tracey, describes the move as «disastrous», arguing that it overturns the fundamental principle that creators control their own work. <blockquote>"We've always owned our work… But now they are saying everything we’ve ever created, all our artwork, we have to go back and opt out of it being used to train AI." — Sarah McIntyre</blockquote>
The Devon Artist Network has also expressed strong opposition, fearing that artists who are unaware of the changes may lose control over their intellectual property.
Legal and Political Responses
McIntyre has appealed to local MP Mel Stride, who has criticized the proposed law for endangering the creative industry. He argues that while AI has economic potential, it should not come at the cost of artistic careers. <blockquote>"Labour must press pause on its rushed consultation and rethink its approach to harness the benefits of AI without compromising the success of our creative industries." — Mel Stride, MP</blockquote>
Meanwhile, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) insists that current copyright regulations are limiting AI development. It claims that balancing AI progress with creative industry protection is essential.
Diverging Opinions: Could AI Help Artists?
Not everyone in the arts community sees the proposal as purely negative. Professor Mike Phillips from the University of Plymouth suggests that AI could also be used to detect copyright violations, helping artists track down unauthorized use of their work. <blockquote>"It would be nice if some of the effort put into ripping stuff off was put into tracking stuff down." — Prof. Mike Phillips</blockquote>
Uncertain Future for AI and Copyright
The consultation period has ended, but no final decision has been made. While the government argues that copyright laws need modernization, artists continue to fight for stronger protections. The outcome could redefine how creative work is used in the AI era.
