A reddit user recently visits a local craft tent event for local artists. While one may expect to see local Welsh art and creativity, this user was “shocked” to see how many artists are using AI-generate paintings to make a sale.

He goes, “Went to an event the other day in Pembrokeshire which had a Craft Tent for local artists. I was disappointed to see so many stalls selling AI generated schlock.”

“This was at Camrose Vintage Working Day which took place over the weekend. More than two stores entirely devoted to this drivel that took no more than a few seconds for them to generate. I spoke with some of the actual artists that were there selling their paintings, and many of them expressed how disappointed they were to see them at the event as they had been chosen over ACTUAL artists who couldn’t get a space for the craft tent.”

His concern was resonated by nine thousand readers who shared similar thoughts. One said, “I regularly have stalls at craft markets around Wales – I hand paint and draw all my own merch. It’s soul destroying seeing stalls like this next to me! (Not to mention the stalls reselling stuff off temu!)Sadly lots of the event organisers just seem interested in taking the money for the pitches.”

Another said, “I dont craft or sell, but I’ve seen an uptick in resold shit. I went to my local market and there’s a typical cheap nonsense and then a canvas print store. I thought at first maybe they worked with artists but when I asked where they get it from, I was told “If I tell you that I’d ruin my secret.” Yeah no thanks stolen art, AI art and cheap pins for a bonkers mark up.”

READ NEXT: Woman Notices ‘Big Differences’ Living in Wales Compared to Her Life Back Home in the US.

READ NEXT: Welsh Mum Plans an Unforgettable Surprise for the Groom. Proof That the Welsh Know How To Surprise

“ I was in Cardiff with my mam a while ago and we encountered someone selling ai art and when I warned her that it was AI generated she said that it doesn’t matter and proceeded to buy some for our neighbors even though there were plenty of other options. I told my dad about how frustrated that made me and he argues that it’s just a generational thing.”

“ I went to Tenby recently, hadn’t gone in a few years as my grandparents lived there and passed away a while ago. Went into a shop I used to buy something from every year, and half the artwork in there is now AI stuff. It’s really upsetting honestly.”

A commentor shared the reason behind the happenings of AI-art. “I sell my art at comic cons all over the country, and this has become such a problem that a lot of event organisers are banning AI art.”

“However, there seems to be a disconnection between the ban and enforcing it, as usually there are 200+ artists at the big events. Another issue is traders doing this, which are the people who buy those massive spaces with 4+ tables and sell either knock of merchandise or dropshippers. One of the major issues with this is that these people easily spend £1000+ for their spaces, and often the organisers rely on that money so they wont do much more than give them a warning.”

READ NEXT:

“Why is Welsh Different to English When We’re Neighbours?” Woman Explains the Difference

“Welsh is Beautiful!” The Launch of Fantasy Video Game Based on Welsh Folklore

Welsh Maps That Will Make You Feel Smart About Welsh History (Part 2)

Share us your thoughts on [email protected]

More from Welsh Histories

Welsh Histories is a Welsh history celebrating platform which looks to promote all aspects of Welsh history. Though we focus predominantly on native Welsh history, we do also share the non-native aspects from time to time. You can follow us on Facebook; Instagram or Twitter for more. A reader? We also have our very own Welsh Histories Shop where we sell our Welsh Histories  Magazine.  Diolch yn fawr iawn and keep enjoying Welsh Histories.

Sally George

Sally is a proud wife of a Welshman, editor & writer of Welsh Histories. She’s all about stories—that shout ‘anything Welsh.’ Drop her an email if you have an advice, insight, experience, or a story to share.