From Forging Swords to Fighting Deepfakes: Jacob Powning’s Bold Leap Into Law and AI Ethics
Jacob Powning shifted from crafting swords to earning a law degree, driven by a new passion for AI and privacy law. He now focuses on legal issues surrounding AI-generated content and deepfakes.
From Swordsmith to Law Graduate: Jacob Powning’s Unconventional Career Shift
Jacob Powning spent years crafting swords, traveling internationally, and collaborating with researchers. His work included documenting ancient Celtic swords at the British Museum in London, where a simple moment sparked a new ambition. Passing by a lawyer’s office, the sight of a classic Windsor chair at a desk struck him as an unexpected career possibility.
That moment led Powning to pursue a law degree, culminating in his graduation from the University of New Brunswick law school. For him, the transition was natural. He had achieved what he wanted in swordsmithing and was drawn to politics, regulations, and the structure of human society.
A Career Forged in Steel and Detail
Before law, Powning specialized in European swordsmithing traditions from the Iron Age. His handcrafted swords featured intricate blades, handles, and sheaths. He connected with artisans producing swords for high-profile film and television projects like Thor and a Game of Thrones spinoff. His works found collectors across Europe, Asia, and North America, and one of his swords was included in the Deutsches Klingenmuseum collection in Germany.
Legal Interests Rooted in AI and Privacy
Now, Powning focuses on legal challenges linked to artificial intelligence, particularly privacy and copyright issues. He is concerned about AI’s use of artists’ work without permission during training, which raises questions about fair use. This area is becoming critical as AI-generated content grows in prominence.
He also highlights the legal implications of "deepfakes" — AI-altered media that can misrepresent reality. Courts have seen cases where defendants claim videos are deepfakes to challenge evidence. The Canadian government warns that deepfakes can falsely place individuals in situations they never participated in, complicating legal proceedings.
Powning believes the law can create safeguards that allow AI to be used responsibly while preventing misuse. His background in philosophy, especially the study of human identity and language, informs his skepticism about AI’s ability to truly replicate human communication.
Advice for Artists Considering New Paths
Powning encourages artists and artisans to explore new directions. He emphasizes that many skills developed in creative work—self-discipline, diligence, and motivation—translate well into academic and professional fields like law.
“It’s not too late to try something new,” he says. “Being self-driven as an artist prepares you well for the demands of legal studies and beyond.”
For legal professionals interested in AI and copyright law, Powning’s journey highlights the importance of cross-disciplinary knowledge in addressing emerging challenges.
