Maisie Lloyd
I'm passionate about recording the world, but most of all driven by creativity and collaborative environments. My experience revolves around the production of digital content, pertaining to graphic design, writing copy, and video and audio content.
What is the trend?
OpenAI has recently rolled out a new version of ChatGPT with significantly enhanced AI capabilities, particularly in image generation. This upgrade has sparked a viral trend where users upload their personal images and prompt the AI to “animate this like Studio Ghibli.”
What’s caused this prompt on ChatGPT’s latest version to trend?
Users quickly flooded X (formerly Twitter) with their AI-generated Studio Ghibli-style images, showcasing everything from personal photos to iconic movie scenes and internet memes. The accessibility and improved quality of ChatGPT’s image-generation tools have encouraged widespread participation.
Beyond Studio Ghibli, users have experimented with other animation styles, including The Simpsons and South Park, further fuelling the trend.
What works so well about the trend?
Studio Ghibli has a devoted following, with millions of fans appreciating its distinctive animation style. The Japanese studio is renowned for its hand-drawn artistry, whimsical storytelling, and deep emotional resonance. The ability of ChatGPT to closely replicate this aesthetic has driven its widespread appeal.
Several factors contribute to the trend’s success:
- Ease of Use – OpenAI’s generative features are free and accessible to all users, making it easy for anyone to create AI-generated art in various styles.
- Engagement & Virality – The instantly recognizable Studio Ghibli aesthetic has encouraged users to share their results online, prompting others to try it for themselves and contribute to the trend.
Does this raise issues around copyright?
This trend touches on an ongoing debate about AI-generated art and intellectual property. Studio Ghibli co-founder Hayao Miyazaki has long been critical of AI in animation, famously stating, “I strongly feel that this is an insult to life itself.” His ethos prioritizes authenticity and meticulous craftsmanship, which contrasts sharply with AI-generated imitations.
While AI-generated art does not technically infringe on copyright, it raises ethical concerns about replicating the hard work of illustrators without their consent. The trend serves as a reminder of the growing challenges surrounding AI and artistic originality.
How are brands and accounts using the trend?
While independent creators have embraced the trend, brands have been slower to adopt it. A few exceptions include major brands like Airbus, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who changed his X profile picture to an AI-generated Studio Ghibli-style version of himself.
As AI art generation continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how brands, artists, and audiences navigate the balance between creativity, authenticity, and ethical considerations.
