Story perspectives

700+ Artists Unite Against AI Theft in Creative Sector

1/22/2026

Summary

Story summary

Over 700 artists, including Scarlett Johansson, Cate Blanchett, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, joined the anti-AI campaign Stealing Isn’t Innovation led by Human Artistry Campaign.
The campaign says creators’ work is used without permission, calling it theft, not innovation, and seeks licensing to protect rights while enabling AI.
Johansson has urged the U.S. government to prioritize AI-use legislation, and the effort highlights safeguarding the U.S. creative sector, which supports millions of jobs.

History

Historical Context

The 1976 Copyright Act established legal protections for creative works in the U.S., enabling advocacy for artists like Scarlett Johansson and Cate Blanchett against AI challenges. This legislation reflects ongoing struggles for creators' rights, echoing historical battles against unauthorized use of artistic work. The outcome of current campaigns could significantly impact the U.S. creative sector, which employs millions and contributes substantially to the economy.

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Story summary

Over 700 artists, including Scarlett Johansson, Cate Blanchett, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, joined the anti-AI campaign Stealing Isn’t Innovation led by Human Artistry Campaign.
The campaign says creators’ work is used without permission, calling it theft, not innovation, and seeks licensing to protect rights while enabling AI.
Johansson has urged the U.S. government to prioritize AI-use legislation, and the effort highlights safeguarding the U.S. creative sector, which supports millions of jobs.

1 / 2