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Board flags possible AI‑assisted designs in vendor submissions; vendors told to document originals
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Summary
During vendor reviews, board members asked whether some sticker/button images showed evidence of AI generation. Presenters said their process begins with hand drawings that are digitized; the board asked staff to retain provenance and requested vendors be prepared to show originals if questions arise.
A portion of the VillageFest Board meeting focused on whether vendors’ images and designs originated in artificial‑intelligence tools or began as original, hand‑drawn art.
A board member raised the issue during a review of a stickers-and-buttons vendor, saying some submitted images “show clear signs of AI work.” The presenter responded that they start with hand drawings and then digitize them for production, adding they keep original drawings and process photos. The board asked staff to retain application materials and told vendors to be prepared to show originals or process documentation if concerns about origin are raised in the future.
Why it matters: VillageFest markets itself as an artisan marketplace with a handmade‑work emphasis. Whether an image was composed in an AI tool or originated as a vendor’s own drawing can affect whether a product meets the festival’s 75% handmade expectation.
What board members asked: At least one board member requested clarity on how much of a product is digitally created versus hand‑made and whether designs shown in applications were generated or heavily assisted by AI platforms. The presenter said the creative starting point is hand-drawn work and that digital tools are used to prepare files for printing.
Board direction: Staff will keep application photographs and any process evidence on file; the board advised vendors that original drawings, time‑lapse photos or video of the making process are appropriate ways to document origin and satisfy the handmade standard.
Representative quotes:
"There are clear signs of AI work in it," a board member said when pointing to some stickers shown in the application. The presenter replied, "I've always drawn by hand first," and said originals and process files exist.
Next steps: The board did not adopt a written policy at this meeting but signaled that questions about provenance could trigger additional follow-up. Vendors approved tonight were told to keep documentation that demonstrates the work they sell is predominantly their own handmade production.
The meeting continued with approvals for multiple vendors and staff updates on marketing and compliance.
