Just days before contract negotiations that will influence how animation studios utilize generative artificial intelligence over the coming years, the Animation Guild has published a report highlighting the risks the technology presents to its workforce.
 |
| The Animation Guild Building in Burbank Michael Buckner/PMC |
Titled “Critical Crossroads: The Impact of Generative AI and the Importance of Protecting the Animation Workforce,” the report, developed by the union’s AI-focused task force, reveals that generative AI tools are capable of producing results that could replace a wide range of job roles held by TAG members.
These roles span across design, production, animation, and scriptwriting. As of now, the technology is already able to generate 3D models, fully rendered 3D environments, early concept designs, and complete color renderings.
A survey of animation industry executives, commissioned earlier this year by the Animation Guild and the Concept Art Association, found that 78 percent of companies are likely to become “early adopters” of generative AI within the next three years. More specifically, 51 percent of these companies plan to use the technology for 3D asset creation, while 41 percent expect to apply it to 2D artwork.
Additionally, about one-third are considering using AI to streamline productivity, organization, and management, with roughly 25 percent foreseeing AI playing a role in the development of film and television scripts.
The report emphasizes that entry-level jobs are most vulnerable to disruption, either through job consolidation or outright elimination. It notes, “AI systems are likely to disproportionately impact individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and underrepresented groups, as these positions have traditionally served as pathways for economic advancement.”
This report comes at a crucial time for the Animation Guild, as their ongoing negotiations with the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers remain at an impasse regarding the issue of AI. The two sides are scheduled to resume talks on Monday.
In the report released Thursday, the Animation Guild reiterated that addressing generative AI is its foremost concern in these negotiations. According to an internal AI survey conducted in March, 100 percent of respondents supported including provisions in the union contract to prevent generative AI from displacing workers. Additionally, 87 percent of members supported banning the use of unionized labor to train AI systems, and 75 percent advocated for implementing staffing and employment duration requirements to mitigate the effects of AI-related job losses.
Beyond advocating for strong contract protections in this year’s talks, the union’s AI task force has suggested a proactive approach. This includes lobbying lawmakers, promoting tax incentives for human-created animation, monitoring potential regulatory changes, running awareness campaigns, and exploring how the courts might influence the future of AI technology.
“Our research emphasizes the significant threat GenAI systems pose to animation professionals, underscoring the importance of being actively involved in decisions and discussions around GenAI to safeguard our rights and the integrity of our work,” the task force concluded.
Through its bargaining efforts and broader initiatives, the task force added, “TAG is committed to ensuring the industry evolves with AI advancements while preserving the rights and jobs of its workforce.”