Artists Concerned Over Proposed AI Copyright Law Changes
Artists in Devon are raising concerns over government proposals that could allow artificial intelligence (AI) companies to use their work without permission.
The proposed changes would enable AI developers to use creators' online content to train their models unless rights holders actively opt out. The Devon Artist Network has expressed strong opposition, calling the plans "very worried." Illustrator Sarah McIntyre described the potential impact as "disastrous" for her career.
A consultation on the proposals by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has concluded, but no decisions have been made.
Artists Fear Career Damage
McIntyre, based in Bovey Tracey, said the changes could significantly affect her livelihood.
"We've always owned our work, that's just a part of British law," she said. "I made this, it's mine, and I can earn money from it and if someone else copies it then that's against the law."
She criticised the opt-out requirement, saying artists should not have to take extra steps to protect their work from AI training.
McIntyre has written to Mel Stride, Conservative MP for Central Devon, seeking support. Stride acknowledged AI's potential for innovation and economic growth but warned that the government’s approach could harm the creative industries.
"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," he said.
Devon Artist Network Opposes Changes
Avenda Burnell Walsh from the Devon Artist Network also voiced opposition to the proposals.
"My car is parked on the road all night and day in the public domain but I wouldn't expect to have to say to somebody legally you can't have this car it's mine,'" she said. "You shouldn't have to say that about your art either, should you?"
Potential Benefits for Artists
Some experts argue that AI could offer advantages to artists.
Mike Phillips, a professor of interdisciplinary arts at the University of Plymouth, suggested AI could help track copyright violations.
"It would be nice if some of the effort put into ripping stuff off was put into tracking stuff down," he said. "That is something AI is good at—identifying things and recognising patterns. Maybe that would allow artists to use AI and seek the benefits from it."
Government Reviewing Consultation Feedback
The DSIT stated that the UK's current copyright and AI regulations are limiting the potential of the creative industries, media, and AI sector.
"That cannot continue," the department said. "That's why we have been consulting on a new approach."
It confirmed that no final decisions have been made and that submissions from the creative industries would be considered.
The UK government is considering changes to copyright law that would allow AI developers to use online content unless creators opt out.
Devon artists, including illustrator Sarah McIntyre, have expressed strong opposition, fearing career damage.
Conservative MP Mel Stride warned that the proposals could harm the creative industries.
Source: BBC