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DEN Talk: AI & Copyright in Studio Erwin Olaf

8 June 2026, 13:00-16:00

What does it mean when creators open their work to AI? 

The rise of generative AI puts copyright under pressure. For some, it feels like an infringement on creative ownership, while for others it represents a new creative reality. But how do cultural organizations deal with this?

During this DEN Talk, we bring together various perspectives at a location where the topic comes to life: Studio Erwin Olaf. Based on Erwin Olaf's work and his choice to open his visual material to AI, we will discuss what this means for creators, institutions, and the sector as a whole. 

What can you expect? 

A dynamic panel discussion led by Dymphie Braun, where different perspectives come together and there is room for in-depth questions and interaction. 

You will receive: 

  • Insights into the tension between protecting and opening up work 
  • Concrete examples from the practices of creators, institutions, and AI artists 
  • Explanation of current legal frameworks, such as the Copyright Act and the AI Act 
  • Reflection on the role of organizations: what can you do, what are you allowed to do, and what do you want to do 
  • Space to ask questions and actively participate in the discussion 

With contributions from, among others, Studio Erwin Olaf, Pictoright, art collective Pensive Vivifier, and DEN copyright advisor Andrea Langendoen.

Program 

13:00 – 13:30 || Arrival and welcome (physical only) 
Welcome to Studio Erwin Olaf 

13:30 – 15:00 || Panel and discussion (physical & online) 

Program structure: 

  • Introduction by DEN (Andrea Langendoen) 
  • Short interviews: 
  1. Shirley den Hartog - Director of Studio Erwin Olaf 
  2. Hanneke Holthuis - Head of Legal Affairs at Pictoright / Federation of Image Rights 
  3. Janne Kosmos - Art collective Pensive Vivifier
  • Forum discussion led by Dymphie Braun 
  • Live Q&A with questions from the audience & online participants 

15:00 – 16:00 || Networking and drinks (physical only) 
Networking moment with snacks and drinks

Who is this day for?

For professionals in the cultural sector working with digitization, creation, and rights. 

Think of: 

• policymakers and management 
• communication and marketing professionals 
• collection managers and curators 
• creators and artists 
• anyone working with or thinking about AI and copyright 

Whether you make strategic decisions or work practically with content, this discussion helps you position yourself in a rapidly changing field.

Buy your ticket here!

Physical attendance: €22,50 

• Access to the event at Studio Erwin Olaf 
• Participation in the live Q&A 
• Access to the recording afterwards 
• Includes drinks after the event 

Arrival: 13:00

Buy your ticket here if you want to attend physically

 

Online participation: €9,99 

• Live access via livestream 
• Opportunity to ask questions during the Q&A 
• Access to the recording afterwards 

Start: 13:30 

Buy your ticket here if you want to attend online