Chapter 1: The Emergence of AI in Art Creation

Have you noticed the featured image accompanying this article? It was crafted using a text-to-image generator. At first glance, it certainly resembles art. While I possess skills in Photoshop, there's no way I could replicate such an image using traditional photo editing tools.

To produce the aforementioned image, I utilized Invoke AI, which is available on RunDiffusion. Their cloud service charges 50 cents per hour. By entering descriptive text prompts, I generate images. The prompt that yielded the image above was: "Book cover, genera humor, bright colors, mighty warrior, location rave party, large crowd, DJ people in background surreal distortions, apocalyptic."

This may seem like a haphazard collection of phrases, and indeed it is. Through my experience, I've learned that being overly specific often leads to disappointing results.

The featured image was created with the same prompt as the images that follow. I merely adjusted parameters like the image size and utilized varied training datasets.

Images like these show that what works in one instance may not yield the same outcome in another. Attempting to finely control the AI's output often leads to confusion.

Interestingly, using the name "Tony Soprano" consistently produces clear and coherent images.

These images suggest that many pictures of James Gandolfini were captured during his role on "The Sopranos." He appears unchanged throughout his career, unlike other celebrities whose images evolve over time.

Another figure that emerges consistently is Dwayne Johnson.

Pro Tip: Incorporate phrases like "taking a picture" or, for closer shots, "taking a selfie." This ensures the camera perspective is clear.

You may find yourself tantalizingly close to envisioning the perfect image, yet AI art may never fully align with your imagination. A minuscule alteration can dramatically shift the outcome—sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse.

Is AI-generated art truly art?

Absolutely, although in its unrefined state, it can feel somewhat alien. Features like hands often appear distorted, and while the images evoke familiarity, they are fundamentally just pixels.

AI art will eventually bridge the uncanny valley, making it increasingly challenging to distinguish between AI-generated and human-made images. If the distinction becomes blurred, does the origin of the art even matter?

The images produced by AI do resemble art, but do they appropriate from existing artists? The answer is no; they draw inspiration instead.

AI art generation is akin to how artists are influenced by the works they've encountered. Just as art history textbooks are filled with examples showcasing various styles, AI image generators remix existing data to create something new.

This influence is no more theft than when BTS draws from the Backstreet Boys or when "Star Wars" draws inspiration from "The Wizard of Oz." While the narratives may bear similarities, "Star Wars" didn't pilfer from "The Wizard of Oz."

Chapter 2: AI as a Creative Tool

In my journey as an AI art enthusiast, I've collaborated with my friend Lynn Cole, a professional graphic artist. Lynn constantly experiments with cutting-edge technology to express her artistic vision.

In the following video, Lynn shares her creative process, utilizing advanced techniques and software that far surpass my own capabilities. For her, generating the initial image is just the beginning of a more extensive artistic journey.

AI can serve as a powerful tool for genuine art creation. It does not replace artists; rather, it parallels the introduction of acrylic paint.

When Photoshop and MacPaint debuted, many artists lamented that they lowered the artistic standards. However, those who embraced the technology evolved alongside it.

I appreciate the freedom AI art provides. Despite my lack of artistic skills, I find great joy in generating images. AI-generated art has the potential to streamline artists' workflows and boost their income—if they choose to utilize it.

If you've dismissed AI-generated art as mere cheating or devoid of soul, I challenge you to give it a try. Don't remain uninformed.

Invoke AI far surpasses simpler alternatives like Canva’s image generator or Google Crayon. Whether you input a single word or a lengthy description, achieving the desired output can be difficult, but the satisfaction when you do is unparalleled.

RunDiffusion offers your first hour free of charge. This isn't an affiliate link; I'm simply sharing an excellent resource. Be sure to select the Invoke AI pre-configured option.

Has my perspective shifted yours, or do you still harbor reservations? Was there a tragic incident involving a robot in your past? Why do you harbor distrust toward machines? How has AI impacted your business this year?

In the realm of AI, I also enjoy playing a text adventure game called AI Dungeon.

Call me Daddy Big Balls.