ArtStation’s New Chapter Excites Users: ‘Finally Free from Epic’s AI Influence’

Epic Games has announced the sale of ArtStation and Sketchfab, two platforms for 3D art and game assets that it acquired in 2021, to KitBash3D for an undisclosed amount. Many of ArtStation’s 10 million registered users are expressing excitement over this development, with some feeling optimistic that the platform can reclaim its “former glory” and reduce the overwhelming presence of AI-generated content in the marketplace.

On August 10, the sale was confirmed through separate announcements from Epic Games, KitBash3D, and ArtStation. Epic’s statement emphasized its commitment to focusing on Unreal Engine 6, Fortnite, the developer ecosystem, and the Epic Games Store, while ArtStation’s message centered on the implications for its user base.

“Today, ArtStation and Sketchfab are becoming part of KitBash, the company behind 3D art platforms KitBash3D and Greyscalegorilla,” stated ArtStation. “With the addition of ArtStation and Sketchfab’s publishing and discovery platforms, artists will receive support throughout the creative process, from concept to sharing their work and advancing their careers. There will be no changes to how creators access or utilize ArtStation and Sketchfab. Portfolios, libraries, and core workflows will continue as they are.”

ArtStation expressed its commitment to supporting professional artists and acknowledged the importance of user feedback in shaping the platform’s future.

Since Epic’s acquisition of ArtStation and Sketchfab, many artists have voiced concerns about the prevalence of AI-generated art and assets, which they feel overshadow genuine creations and can mislead potential customers.

On the r/ArtStation subreddit, artists are hopeful about the platform’s future under KitBash3D. Comments reflect a sense of relief at moving away from Epic’s influence, with one user stating, “Free from Epic and their love of AI slop. That’s some good news I hope.” Another user expressed skepticism about Epic’s management, while others celebrated the return of two beloved platforms to independent control.

In light of the sale, ArtStation followed up with a post on X, expressing optimism about the future and a commitment to listening to user feedback: “There’s trust to earn, a lot to learn, and important work ahead. The feedback we’re hearing from artists matters.”