Brian MerchantMar 27, 2025

OpenAI is using Studio Ghibli-style memes as an ad hoc promotional campaign for its new image generator—despite Ghibli founder Hayao Miyazaki's famous hatred of AI. Sam Altman even made his X avatar a 'Ghiblified' portrait.

Disgracing Miyazaki is part of the point: It's more proof to the industry's biggest boosters that they have won—that they're free to use, appropriate, and commoditize art however they see fit.

https://www.bloodinthemachine.com/p/openais-studio-ghibli-meme-factory

OpenAI's Studio Ghibli meme factory is an insult to art itself

Sam Altman is promoting his new image generator by appropriating the work of one of the greatest living animators—who is "disgusted" by AI.

Blood in the Machine
Show threadBrian MerchantMar 27, 2025
I realize that language is strong, and for a long time I have been skeptical of this notion that 'AI bros hate artists' or such—but seeing the response to this critique, which on the other site really actually has too often been literally 'Fuck Miyazaki', what other conclusion are we to come to?
Show threadJulia Bausenhardt

@brianmerchant I've spent a minimal amount of time in places where artists share how you can protect your art against AI (with tools like Glaze/Nightshade) - the hate from AI bros is very real.

All they have is contempt for anyone who actually has the skills to create something meaningful.

Mar 28, 2025 at 8:24amWeb