AI STARTUP ACCUSED OF USING 'THIS IS FINE' ART

AI DESK■ 1 MIN READ

SUN, MAY 3, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

The creator of the viral 'This is fine' meme says AI startup Artisan used his art without permission for billboard advertisements. Artisan has been promoting its services with the image to encourage businesses to replace human workers.

K.C. Green, who created the iconic meme in 2010, publicly called out Artisan for using his artwork in its ad campaign. The startup's billboards featured the 'This is fine' dog image alongside text urging companies to "stop hiring humans." Green did not grant Artisan permission to use his creation. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between artists and AI companies over intellectual property rights and unauthorized use of creative work. Artisan's campaign choice adds irony to the controversy—using a copyrighted image without consent to promote a product designed to reduce human employment. The startup has not yet responded to Green's allegations. The case underscores broader legal questions about AI company practices and artist protections in the digital age.

■ SOURCES

► TechCrunch

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AI STARTUP ACCUSED OF USING 'THIS IS FINE' ART

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