... I lost a potential customer because I proposed using a generative ai piece as a guide/reference for a project which, mind you, I don't normally do. And then I realized, especially over the years, that ai in general (not just generative ai) has gotten such a bad rep. For the record, I never trace, line by line, or copy other's arts. EVER. I only use guides.
Still, transparency matters in my world, so I really should have been upfront about what goes on behind the scenes. I know I'm risking losing any more support (and even monetary support) with this, but you know what? The truth is always better than a well-meant half-truth.
With that, I'm proposing a NEW policy regarding my arts (and digital media in general) going forward. Pay attention...
Starting from THIS point, you will see a small indent on a corner that'll say " #NOTai ". That way, you will know for sure that ai (generative or otherwise) played NO part in planning out my content. No references, no guides, nothing. Just straight from the cartoonist's brain. I'll otherwise ONLY accept that which is requested from YOU, the supplier or commissioner. Other than that, my content is my own.
Speaking of ai, some of you may have suspected it, but I have a completely separate gallery dedicated SOLELY on ai slop that *I* create. Ask me for details on that.
Now, I'm taking a GIANT gamble here, given that I'm still in (and have been for some years) a financial bind, despite being in school. Not to mention I am due to run out of student loan refunds REALLY SOON, so, as I mentioned before, I need a plan if I'm gonna stay afloat. And being behind on my utility bills AND having debt collectors up my tail isn't helping, either.
STILL, I HATE HAVING TO LOSE CUSTOMERS BECAUSE OF MY STUPID DECISIONS... I OWN THAT.
I hope you all can forgive me for this, and know that I do not intend and have never intended on "stealing" or copying any one's arts. After reading this, I know many of you will be more hesitant to want art from me now that you know what's up... but, at the same time, I still need help.
On that note, I think, AFTER I get through with the latest YCH, I feel the need to make some refinements to reflect this policy change. I hope that's ok with you all.
And now, I'd love you hear your thoughts in the comments below, or in the DM's. Feedback is super important.
