OpenAI unleashes viral AI art trend using Studio Ghibli style

In March 2025, OpenAI introduced its latest image generation capabilities within ChatGPT, marking a significant leap in AI technology. Users can upload images and transform them into the distinct style of Studio Ghibli, a beloved Japanese animation studio. This development has led to a surge of Studio Ghibli-inspired content flooding social media, including memes, personal portraits, and reinterpretations of historical events. Many users expressed excitement over creating personalized Ghibli-style images of themselves, family, and friends, while some integrated this new tool into popular internet memes, blending contemporary culture with the aesthetic of the iconic animation studio. However, this trend has sparked ethical concerns among artists and fans, who argue that leveraging AI to replicate a specific artistic style undermines the dedication and craft associated with the original works of Studio Ghibli and its co-founder, Hayao Miyazaki. The issue raises questions about copyright and the potential infringement on the rights of artists, especially given Miyazaki's recent condemnation of AI technologies that attempt to emulate human creativity. Critics have described some of the generated images as lacking soul and trivializing the unique artistry fostered at Studio Ghibli. Many have taken to social media to voice their opinions, highlighting the discomfort stemming from the mass production of what they term 'AI slop,' referring to generic artworks that appear excessive and devoid of genuine creativity. Although the images produced are visually appealing, there’s an underlying fear that this technology could lead to the devaluation of traditional artistry. Some users have also pointed out the irony of using AI, which is often perceived as environmentally harmful, to replicate the wholesome and nature-centric themes prevalent in Studio Ghibli films. As the Ghibli trend gained traction, legal experts began weighing in on the ramifications of utilizing copyrighted material for AI training without proper authorization. They indicate that OpenAI's ability to profit from this AI-generated content without consent presents a complex legal dilemma. Studio Ghibli has not publicly responded to the surge of AI-generated imagery, but as the discussions unfold, the friction between innovation in AI technology and the preservation of artistic integrity remains a hot topic within the creative community.