Patreon CEO Jack Conte says AI will shape the future of creative work, but he wants clear rules around how companies use creators’ content. He spoke at SXSW and explained that while he supports technology, he does not accept how some AI firms train their models on creative work without paying the people behind it.
At the event, Conte described AI as another shift that creators have faced before, similar to the move from iTunes downloads to streaming and the rise of short-form video. He said creators adapt and move forward, even when platforms and formats change.
According to SXSW remarks, Conte directly challenged how AI companies justify using creative work. He said, “The AI companies are claiming fair use, but this argument is bogus.” He also pointed out that these same companies pay large publishers and rights holders, which raises questions about fairness.
Creators want fair compensation
Conte argued that if AI companies can legally use content for free, they would not need to sign large deals with companies like Disney or Warner Music. He asked, “If it’s legal to just use it, why pay?” He added that millions of independent creators deserve the same treatment as major rights holders.
Conte made it clear that he does not oppose AI itself. He said, “I accept the inevitability of change,” and added that the technology will improve and remain part of the future. Still, he believes companies must include creators in that future by paying for their work.
He closed with a simple idea. Artists will keep creating, and people will keep valuing human-made work, even as AI grows.
