Generative AI has become an increasingly influential force in the arts, from visual design and music to filmmaking and literature. While AI has been used in creative processes for years, recent advancements have made it more accessible, allowing everyday users to generate high-quality artwork, animations, and even written content in seconds.
This technology presents both exciting opportunities and significant challenges for artists and the wider creative industry.
One of the most talked-about AI trends in 2025 is the rise of Studio Ghibli-style AI-generated images. AI-powered tools have allowed users to transform their photos into illustrations resembling the beloved aesthetic of films like Spirited Away and My Neighbour Totoro. Social media has been flooded with AI-created Ghibli-esque landscapes, characters, and even AI-generated short animations that mimic the studio’s signature hand-drawn style.
While these AI images have captivated audiences, they also raise ethical concerns. Studio Ghibli’s legendary co-founder Hayao Miyazaki has been vocal in his criticism of AI-generated art, once describing AI animation as “an insult to life itself”. His views reflect a broader debate about whether AI-generated works dilute the artistry and effort that goes into traditional animation.
The rise of AI-generated art raises a key question, thrown into sharp focus by the rise of Ghibli imitators: is AI fostering creativity or simply repackaging existing artistic styles?
AI models are trained on vast datasets of human-created works, meaning they can replicate the essence of certain aesthetics but often struggle with true originality. Critics argue that AI-generated content lacks the human touch – an essential element in emotional storytelling and artistic innovation.
Photo from the ArtScience Museum's exhibition The World of Studio Ghibli
(Credit: Choo Yut Shing)
On the other hand, some artists see AI as a tool rather than a replacement. Many are experimenting with AI-generated concepts as a starting point, refining them manually to create hybrid works that blend human ingenuity with machine efficiency. This approach is already being used in industries like video game design, where AI assists in generating background assets while artists focus on key details.
Beyond the artistic concerns, AI’s role in creativity has sparked legal debates, particularly around copyright and ownership. If an AI generates an image in the style of a famous artist, does that infringe on their intellectual property? Some companies, like OpenAI, have imposed restrictions to prevent users from generating content that mimics the work of living artists. However, as AI tools continue to evolve, enforcing these rules may become increasingly difficult.
Additionally, AI’s impact on creative jobs is a pressing issue. In industries like publishing, AI-written content is raising concerns about job security for writers. In film and television, AI-generated scripts and digital actors are already being tested, leading to industry-wide discussions about the future of human involvement in storytelling.
As we look to the future, generative AI is unlikely to disappear. If anything, it will become more sophisticated. The challenge now is to strike a balance – leveraging AI’s capabilities while preserving the integrity of human artistry. Some artists are embracing AI as a collaborative tool, while others are fighting to protect traditional creative practices.
As AI-generated Ghibli-style images, music compositions, and films continue to make waves, one thing is clear: the conversation around AI and creativity is only just beginning. Whether it becomes a force for artistic empowerment or a disruptive threat depends on how both artists and audiences choose to engage with it.
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