The controversy surrounding generative AI has been making waves, particularly in the entertainment industry. This technology has caused Hollywood strikes and is currently affecting video game voice actors. Furthermore, the art field is also facing similar controversies over its use. Comics, too, are now being affected by this technology, with artists within the industry and newcomers utilizing genAI to create comic books.
One recent development in this domain is the announcement by Colin Kaepernick, the activist and former football player, of his comic book company called Lumi. Kaepernick claims that Lumi will utilize generative AI to draw and write comics, which will then be sold to readers. He further states that these comics will be creator-owned and will also lead to built-in merchandising opportunities. With $4 million raised to fund Lumi, Kaepernick believes that this company will “level the playing field” and offer a way for aspiring creators to enter the world of comics without needing a full team or personal Hollywood connections.
However, there are several issues with this concept. First and foremost, generative AI has often been criticized for its ability to steal preexisting work. By using this technology, individuals are effectively stealing the creations of others. If someone wishes to create something, they must put in the effort themselves. Working in creative fields requires practice and improvement over time. Additionally, once others in the industry learn how something is made using generative AI, individuals utilizing this technology may face backlash and be shunned by their peers.
Furthermore, artist Khary Randolph claims that he and several other artists were informed about Kaepernick’s plans for Lumi months ago. They raised concerns about the damaging nature of this technology, yet Kaepernick decided to continue regardless. Randolph alleges that Kaepernick even pitched Lumi as a “charity” during San Diego Comic-Con. This lack of consent and the willingness of companies and individuals to ask for forgiveness rather than permission is a major issue. Scarlett Johansson’s voice was used in an OpenAI chatbot without her consent, and voice actors often find themselves signing away their voices to be synthesized due to coded language in contracts. This type of behavior has made the creative industry frustrating for artists and fans alike.
Randolph emphasizes that all someone needs to create comics is “hard work, a pencil, and paper.” There are plenty of free resources available for those serious about entering the industry. Utilizing generative AI technology may seem like a shortcut, but it ultimately harms everyone involved.
In conclusion, the rise of generative AI has sparked controversy within the entertainment industry, including the comic book field. Colin Kaepernick’s comic book company, Lumi, plans to utilize generative AI to create comics, but this raises numerous ethical concerns. While the use of this technology may provide a shortcut for aspiring creators, it ultimately steals the work of others and undermines the true creative process. Additionally, the lack of consent and the constant need to ask for forgiveness rather than permission is a frustrating aspect of the creative industry. Aspiring comic book creators should focus on honing their skills through hard work and utilizing the many free resources available to them, rather than relying on generative AI technology.
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