NCF warns against AI-generated Crop Over videos

The National Cultural Foundation (NCF) is urging the public to rely on official sources for authentic coverage of Grand Kadooment, warning that artificial intelligence-generated videos circulating online do not accurately depict Barbados’ premier cultural festival.

In a statement on Monday, the Foundation said it had become aware of videos on YouTube and other digital platforms using AI-generated imagery to portray Grand Kadooment.

According to the NCF, some of the videos are presented with titles, descriptions and formats that could mislead viewers into believing they are live broadcasts, official coverage or genuine footage of the event.

“The NCF wishes to make it clear that these videos were not produced, commissioned, authorised or endorsed by the Foundation,” the statement said. 

“They do not provide an accurate visual record of Grand Kadooment and should not be regarded as a representation of the true Crop Over experience.”

The Foundation described the highly anticipated festival as a living expression of Barbadian culture, brought to life through the work of local bandleaders, designers, artisans, musicians, performers, production professionals, masqueraders and spectators.

It also urged members of the public and media organisations not to reproduce or share the AI-generated videos as factual documentation of the festival.

Instead, the NCF advised people seeking verified footage and information to use its official digital platforms, @thencfbarbados and @lovecropoverbb, as well as authorised broadcast and media partners.

The Foundation welcomed the continued international interest in Crop Over, but stressed that representations of the festival should be approached responsibly and with respect for the Barbadian creatives and cultural practitioners whose work makes the event possible.

(BT)