AI & Artists

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a topic that has dominated news headlines over the past few years. It has entered the public consciousness as a tool that could make giant leaps forward in science and health, while also imitating human traits like decision making and creative output. AI generated artworks have been sold at auction, won photography prizes and appeared on the front cover of magazines, all whilst stirring debate.

Artificial Intelligence and Artists’ Work: A Survey of Artists on AI

At the end of 2023, DACS launched a survey to understand directly from artists and artists’ representatives how AI impacts them, what positive outcomes or opportunities may be presented by AI, and what barriers exist to using the technology in their practice. 1000 artists and artists' beneficiaries responded to the survey, and 352 provided comments, drawing on their own experiences.

The survey results indicate that there is significant concern amongst artists that unregulated AI would negatively impact their careers, future opportunities and copyright, and that the rapid development of the technology has created a skills shortage. The results show that a third of artists are using AI as a tool in their practice, or to assist with tasks related to their work – showing that AI will have a significant impact on what it means to be an artist in today’s world.

Further, there is strong support for a licensing based solution to the challenges posed by AI.

Copyright and artificial intelligence consultation

In December 2024, the UK Government announced an open consultation seeking “views on how the government can ensure the UK’s legal framework for AI and copyright supports the UK creative industries and AI sector together.”

DACS believes that consent, control and remuneration for IP rights should be central to the UK’s goals for AI development and that the onus should not be on rights holders to prevent AI firms from commercially exploiting their data without permission or remuneration.

Any solution in the UK must enable artists to effectively and easily exercise their rights, and receive fair compensation for use of their work.

AI Fringe 2023

As part of the AI Fringe - coinciding with the UK Government AI Safety Summit - DACS convened a panel exploring the potential impacts of AI models on creators and their IP rights.

DACS is an official partner of the AI Fringe 2025.