JatimVoice.com – The digital world is currently buzzing with a new viral trend: personal photos transformed into Studio Ghibli-style animations using artificial intelligence (AI). Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and X (formerly Twitter) are flooded with "Ghibli-fied" images where users' faces are reimagined as characters from beloved films like My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away.
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| Source: suarajatimpost |
While the aesthetic charm of these AI creations is undeniable, their popularity has sparked debates about originality, copyright, and the ethical implications of AI-generated art.
AI and Ghibli Art: A Passing Trend or a Turning Point?
Aristarchus Pranayama, a lecturer at Petra Christian University's International Program in Digital Media (IPDM), offers a critical perspective on the phenomenon. According to him, the current fascination with AI-generated Ghibli-style art is merely a "phase of awe."
"People are amazed by the ease and stunning results of AI, but this is just a phase," said Aris on Saturday (10/5/2025). He argues that while AI can replicate Ghibli’s iconic style, it cannot replace the artistic depth of human-made digital art.
Copyright and Ethics: Can a Style Be Stolen?
Aris acknowledges that Ghibli’s visual style is deeply ingrained in global pop culture, making concerns about "style theft" somewhat irrelevant. However, he emphasizes the importance of maintaining ethical standards in AI usage.
"A style cannot be patented, but quality and originality must still be preserved. It’s fine to admire the technology, but not at the expense of creative integrity," he stressed.
AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement for Artists
AI has undeniably accelerated processes like storyboarding and conceptual sketching. Aris views AI as a useful tool for speeding up production—especially in early creative stages—but warns against letting it dominate the artistic process entirely.
"We should control AI, not let it control us," he said. "Technology can assist, but artistic and narrative decisions must remain human."*
The Limits of AI: Emotion and Authenticity
Despite AI’s ability to create visually stunning images, Aris believes it lacks the capacity to convey deep emotion or craft meaningful narratives—a uniquely human skill.
"AI can only create appearances. It cannot tell a complete story or evoke genuine emotional depth," he explained.
Not a Threat, But an Ethical Challenge
While the "Ghibli-fied" trend may fade, AI technology will continue evolving. Aris sees this as an opportunity for collaboration between artists and AI—provided it’s used responsibly.
"This technology opens new possibilities, but it must be balanced with ethical awareness and creative responsibility," he concluded.
The "Ghibli-fied" phenomenon highlights how technology and art can intersect beautifully. Yet, behind the mesmerizing visuals, deeper discussions about copyright, originality, and ethics remain crucial. After all, art is not just about beauty—it’s about who creates it, why, and for whom.