AI art is kinda cool, yeah, but you know what's even cooler? Actual art.
Imperfection is quite a sight.
Nota: también puedes leerlo en español, aquí.
Hand drawn, human made, deeply expressive art is a beautiful thing.
Like plenty of gamers who love story-driven video games, I played Disco Elysium and fell in love with its art style. It looks something like this, gravitating towards expressionism with a unique touch:
That's why I jumped at the opportunity to commission a headshot of myself in that very same art style, by the amazing Anastasiia Ivanova. (thanks Tom Barrie for the heads up on her website!)
Fun fact: she even worked at ZA/UM, the original developer for Disco Elysium, as a Senior Concept/Character Artist.
She was kind enough to send over a speed painting video of her actually sketching, coloring, and perfecting the portrait:
I've lost count of how many times I've rewatched this clip. I think this is why AI art, although at times seemingly more polished, will never really strike a real chord with me.
An actual illustration has deliberate decisions in every single stroke, a certain soul within its seams. An intangible, irresistible charm.
Like the one Anastasiia displays here.
AI may give us more in less time, which can be useful in some scenarios.
In this one, though, I prefer a human touch.
If you liked the portrait, I highly encourage you to check out Anastasiia’s website. And who knows, maybe commission a portrait for yourself!