by Eric Schumaker
I realize this is a controversial subject.
Consider this: What we are discussing is machine learning. It has been branded as AI to obfuscate the fact there is no person, no personality, no soul behind it. The AI that companies are marketing is currently not self-aware. They are computer programs using source information to generate things. That source information comes from the entire internet. From all of us.
I’m a filmmaker, actor, and media producer. I produce and perform in spoken word audio, and recently released an epic audio drama that was difficult to make and has high production values. I don’t accept written scripts or source material if I have any indication they may have been AI generated. I respect writers, their art, their work, and their struggle.
I am in solidarity with writers.
My company Seelie Studios is setting a policy on the use of creation of assets using generative machine learning tools in ways that could replace creativity. It’s specific so we continue to support our fellow artists.
Will the rest of the entertainment industry follow? A lot won’t, because big execs see artists as disposable, including writers. They have to. It’s their job to make money at all costs. If it means getting rid of artists in the process, they will, along with other unnecessary expenses. It’s not personal.
Everything you do in support of that policy tells them they made the right decision. People will buy their AI-generated products if it’s convenient. People will engage with it. It tells the executives they are right. They don’t need artists.
My decision not to follow suit may be an unsustainable one, but if so, it’s the one I’ve made.
I stand with you.
I am a fellow artist.
I should add, an AI book is unlikely to have the same level of capture with audiences. There is an entire fan base for certain audio performers who can bring new attention and interest to your book, sometimes massively so. It is a performance, not just a series of spoken words. Behind a performance is a performer. Fans connect with artists, debate the validity of their work, and are moved by someone with physical presence and emotions. At conventions, fans want to speak to writers, actors, and filmmakers. Fans also go to conventions to meet voice actors who do audiobooks and search for their previous work. They might discover yours that way.
I understand the concerns about cost and ROI. It’s a difficult decision. Do you get your work to the public, or perhaps not, because of the cost? There are no guarantees no matter how you release, but I think most authors are less likely to make money on an AI book, at least as things currently stand.
If you choose to use machine learning to replace actors, be careful. By intentionally uploading your work to a machine learning tool, you may give up some or all of your rights. Read online terms carefully and consult a lawyer. Organizations like the Authors Guild have lawyers available to review contracts. If the terms promise not to use your work to train their algorithms, look out for a clause that allows them to change any part of the agreement at any time without notice. If you are diligent, you might be safe. Your work might not be stolen, at least not by that source.
Is it possible to get screwed over by a human artist? Sure. Search for reputable people and get a good contract. They’re out there. I work with many of them.
I will continue to work with real people, will make every effort not to accept AI scripts and not to use machine learning in the place of the heart and creative soul of an artist.
I stand in solidarity with all artists who wish to continue to make art and to have a chance to make a living doing it.
The Museum of the Omniverse: Dragon Exhibit—an audio drama production by Eric Schumacher, Actor/Filmmaker, President Seelie Studios, LLC
