This Website's Stance on AI

Anyone who knows me knows my vehement moral opposition to generative AI. That shouldn't be a hot take at this point, but there's a widespread response which has sprung up out of unfortunate necessity that implicates all creatives as a target of suspicion. I write this manifesto to dispel any and all ambiguity in regards to my position and to solidify my allyship with human creativity on the indie web (and in general).

Let it be known hereon that ROBGARAGE has never, and will never, intentionally use generative AI in any capacity whatsoever.

In addition, I (the webmaster) hold the following stances about AI and creativity:

• AI "art" is otiose and meritless.

• If you really have something to say, you'll put in the effort to say it yourself.

• A terrible work made by a human is worth infinitely more than a "good" "work" "made" by an algorithm.

• Love is for those who love the work.

All art, writing, and code on my website was made with love by human hands.

While I do my very best to vet the authenticity of any images and resources that I use here, I'm only human and mistakes will be made. Please contact me ASAP if you notice I've accidentally used something AI generated so I can take it down immediately. I do not and will never endorse generative AI, and I wish to keep it far away from my creative endeavors.

If you are someone who passionately uses and defends generative AI, respectfully, my website is not for you. I urge you to educate yourself on its harms and allow yourself the pleasure of making something yourself, and only then return here. You can only outsource your thinking so much until it stops being yours.

I strongly believe that every human is an artist -- regardless of race, gender, age, disability, or skill -- and that includes you, my friend! So go make something without a soulless bot holding you back. I know it's hard. Art taps into the most primordial part of our souls, and that level of vulnerability with yourself can be terrifying. But trust me, if I've learned anything in my almost two decades of actively creating, it's that it's worth it and more. I believe in you. You've got this.