arvizu_la

@arvizu_la ∙ Published February 17, 2023

[AI Art Weekly] Arvizu, what’s your background and how did you get into AI art?

I’m a computer science major and I currently work as a substitute worker at an oil company in my hometown in Mexico. My work duties include office work, firefighting, conducting chemistry experiments in the laboratory, and assisting with various other tasks. Although it may seem unusual, it is commonplace here.

In July 2022, I became interested in AI art after learning about DALL-E and Midjourney. Drawing and art were once a frustrating dream of mine, but since discovering these tools, I decided to give it a try and have been captivated ever since.

[AI Art Weekly] Do you have a specific project you’re currently working on? What is it?

I don’t have any special projects going on right now, but I’m currently working on an animation for someone I have looked up to since my teenage years. To my surprise, after viewing some of my previous works, he expressed his admiration for my skills. Apart from this, I’m considering delving into content creation in my language. I have received numerous messages on Instagram and TikTok from individuals seeking my assistance with AI tools, so I might give it a try. However, I do this purely for fun.

[AI Art Weekly] What does your workflow look like?

To find inspiration, I enjoy taking afternoon walks as it helps me to unwind and sparks my creativity. I draw ideas from a variety of sources such as media, personal experiences, and anything that piques my interest. Upon discovering Midjourney, I began experimenting with dream prompts which have resulted in some fascinating concepts. I find that movies, anime, books, video games, and music from diverse artists like Tool, Die Antwoord, Megadeath, and Kanye, all contribute to my creative process. I’m not limited to any particular genre and enjoy exploring anything that resonates with me.

To simplify my creative process, I primarily use Midjourney and Niji for their easy prompts, which I frequently post on Instagram. It’s impressive that you can prompt from your phone, and I find it quite convenient. Additionally, I use Stable Diffusion for more specific outputs. With Stable Diffusion, I can train models and embeddings or choose from the community’s options.

My workflow entails photobashing using Midjourney prompts. By using simple prompts, I acquire the necessary elements for my main picture, which I paste onto a Photoshop canvas. Once complete, I return to Midjourney or Stable Diffusion and use img2img to improve coherence and correct any composition errors. With a polished output, I use Stable Diffusion in Photoshop to inpaint to enhance detail and resolution, and perhaps add a few touches. If the photobashing is visually appealing or meets my desired specifications, I proceed with the image as is. I’m not a Photoshop expert, I just know the basics. Stable Diffusion does the heavy lifting.

[AI Art Weekly] What is your favourite prompt when creating art?

Other than the words “woman” or “girl,” one of my preferred prompt words is “deep shadows” and “oil on canvas.” I’m captivated by the virtual brushstrokes, texture, and lighting that the AI generates. Example 1. Example 2.

[AI Art Weekly] How do you imagine AI (art) will be impacting society in the near future?

Everyone has a unique story to share, and modern tools have made it easier than ever to express oneself creatively. I find it truly inspiring to witness the imaginative worlds others create, which might never have existed otherwise. Looking towards the future, I’m optimistic about the incredible new heights of creativity that AI art will bring us.

Of course, as the volume of art increases, there may be potential downsides, such as falling prices or certain individuals experiencing hardship while others thrive. However, these issues are simply part of progress and the natural ebb and flow of history. As our wants and needs are limitless, there will always be something new and exciting to explore.

While some may lament what is lost, I prefer to focus on the fresh opportunities that will emerge for new jobs and artistic creations. Additionally, many individuals will continue to produce art in more traditional ways simply because they love it, similar to many other vocations.

[AI Art Weekly] Who is your favourite artist?

Well, I have a lengthy list, but I’ll only mention a few. When it comes to illustrators, Simon Bisley captures everything I adore about artworks: intricate details, energetic poses, and compositions with a hint of violence. As for AI, I primarily follow Asian creators like @tohofrog, @8co28, @Muacca. Then there’s a small account that I like because he explores random themes: @kitsunezaka55. These individuals play with prompts in unique ways, resulting in textures and compositions that I never would have thought of. Every time MemoryMod appears in my feed, it’s a lovely surprise (checkout the interview in issue #12). On the other hand, for traditional painters, I appreciate William Adolphe Bouguereau’s work. His meticulous attention to detail is unparalleled for its time.

[AI Art Weekly] Anything else you would like to share?

I would like to express my gratitude for your efforts. Being acknowledged is a priceless blessing, and I’m thankful for it. I also extend my appreciation to all those reading this. If you have a passion for this medium, keep encouraging, learning, and sharing. Let us show support for the art and the individuals who are striving to expand it further.