Games Workshop’s Golden Demon competition may never be the same, as winner Neil Hollis admits to using AI art and calls out his critics.
Neil Hollis: Golden Demon Slayer Sword Winner Uses AI Backdrop & Calls Out Critics
Neil’s Winning Model With AI Background
In a recent Warhammer 40k Golden Demon competition, Neil Hollis, a two-time Slayer Sword winner, admitted to using an AI-generated backdrop for his latest entry.
This revelation stirred controversy within the miniature painting community, with many purists expressing more than a little disappointment. Hollis, known for his bold personality, addressed his critics directly, further igniting the debate.
The Golden Demon Controversy Unveiled
During a recent video interview with the Painting Phase, Hollis disclosed his use of AI to create a backdrop for his entry. While his painting skills remain unquestioned, the admission sparked discussions about the legitimacy and ethics of incorporating AI in traditionally handcrafted art forms.
Community Reaction
The Warhammer and miniature painting scene takes their craftsmanship and tradition seriously. When Hollis brought AI into the mix, it stirred up some drama. Some folks thought it was a cool blend of tech and tradition, while others thought it was a total betrayal of the community’s values.
Supporters’ Perspective
Some folks say that using AI can level up our creativity and bring fresh vibes to art. They think that as long as the main parts of the artwork are hand-painted, using AI for backgrounds shouldn’t steal the artist’s thunder.
Critics’ Perspective
Critics are like, “Hey, using AI takes away the authenticity and skill of traditional miniature painting!” They’re all about preserving the integrity of the art form with every aspect of a competition piece being crafted manually.
Neil Hollis’s Bold Response
Hollis, never one to hold back, took on his critics head-on. He brushed off their criticism by labeling the most vocal opponents as “angry virgins,” which only added more fuel to the fire.
This sharp comeback has split opinions even further, with some applauding his upfront approach and others finding it downright disrespectful.
The Future of Golden Demon Miniature Painting Competitions
Hollis’s admission and the ensuing debate have raised important questions about the future of miniature painting competitions. As technology advances, the definition of craftsmanship and artistry may need to evolve.
The inclusion of AI could become a new norm, challenging traditionalists to rethink their perspectives.
Possible Changes in Rules
The Golden Demon rules don’t mention using AI or printed picture backgrounds for models. So, even if this may offend some people, technically, it’s not against the rules.
So you're now giving awards to art using blatantly stolen material.
This is no longer a competition of artistic talent, but rather who puts the best prompts into the plagiarism machine
— TrashkittenDeluxe 🔞 (@Trashkitten83) March 27, 2024
Maybe this will nudge Games Workshop to make some changes for next year, but as of now, using AI art in Golden Demon Entries seems fair game.
Embracing Innovation
Ultimately, the community’s response to this incident may shape how future entries are judged. Embracing innovation while honoring traditional skills could create a more inclusive and dynamic art form in future competitions.
Conclusion
Neil Hollis really caused a stir in the Warhammer community with his use of AI backdrop and his bold response to critics. This whole incident got everyone talking about the clash between tradition and innovation in art.
As the debate rages on, it’s clear that the future of miniature painting competitions is up in the air.
What do you think about the use of AI art in the Golden Demon competition and Hollis’ response to critics?
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About the Author: Rob Baer
Rob Baer
Job Title: Managing Editor
Founded Spikey Bits in 2009
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About Rob Baer: Founder, Publisher, & Managing Editor of Spikey Bits, the leading tabletop gaming news website focused on the hobby side of wargaming and miniatures. Rob has won many Warhammer 40k Tournaments over the years, including the Adepticon Team Tournament and American Team Tournaments, and is on a first-name basis with almost every major company in the space.
He’s all gaming all the time. With over 30 years of experience in retail and distribution, Rob knows all the products and exactly which ones are the best. He advocates for gaming stores and manufacturers in these difficult times, always looking for the next big thing to feature for the miniatures hobby, helping everyone to provide the value consumers want.
While he’s played every edition of Warhammer 40k and Warhammer Fantasy (since 5th Edition) and has been hobbying on miniatures since the 1908s, Titans of all sizes will always be his favorite! It’s even rumored that his hobby vault rivals the Solemnance Galleries, containing rulebooks filled with lore from editions long past, ancient packs of black-bordered Magic Cards, and models made of both pewter and resin.
