The Impact of AI on the Art World: A Double-Edged Sword

Art, in its many forms, has been a cornerstone of human culture for millennia. From the cave paintings of our ancestors to the digital art of today, it has always been a medium for expression, communication, and reflection. However, the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has brought about a seismic shift in the art world, particularly in the realms of realism and photorealism. While AI has the potential to revolutionize these art movements, it also poses significant challenges and threats. 

## The Rise of AI in Art

AI's involvement in art is not a new phenomenon. In fact, it has been gradually infiltrating the art world for several years now. AI algorithms can now generate artwork, and some of these pieces have even been sold at prestigious auction houses. 

(images created at random using Midjourney)

However, the impact of AI on art is not limited to the creation of new pieces. It also extends to the way we interact with and interpret art. For instance, AI can analyze artwork and provide insights into the artist's style, technique, and influences, enhancing our understanding and appreciation of the piece.

## The Negative Impact of AI on Realism and Photorealism

Realism and photorealism are art movements that strive to depict their subjects with a high level of detail and accuracy, often to the point where the artwork can be mistaken for a photograph. These movements require a significant amount of skill, patience, and attention to detail from the artist.

(Spanish hyperrealist, Pedro Campos and his paintings are the apex of hyperrealistic paintings today. Images: Plus One Gallery, London)

However, the rise of AI has posed a significant threat to these art movements. Here's why:

### 1. Devaluation of Skill

One of the main challenges is that AI can replicate the detailed and precise style of realism and photorealism with relative ease. This has the potential to devalue the skill and effort that artists put into their work. After all, why spend hours painstakingly creating a realistic painting when an AI can produce a similar piece in a fraction of the time?

### 2. Loss of Uniqueness

Art is often valued for its uniqueness and the personal touch of the artist. However, although AI-generated art lacks this personal touch, it can replicate the style and artworks of artists that have been included in its learning model, and it can easily replicate them, which could lead to a loss of uniqueness in the art world.

### 3. Ethical Concerns

There are also ethical concerns associated with AI-generated art. For instance, who owns the copyright to an AI-generated piece? Is it the creator of the AI, the user who generated the artwork, or the AI itself? These questions are yet to be definitively answered, creating a murky ethical landscape.

## The Potential of AI in Enhancing Realistic Artwork

Despite these challenges, AI also offers several opportunities to enhance realism and photorealism. 

### 1. Assisting Artists

AI can be used as a tool to assist artists, rather than replace them. For instance, AI can help artists with the more tedious aspects of creating realistic art, such as getting the proportions and perspective right, allowing them to focus more on the creative aspects of their work.

### 2. Expanding Creative Possibilities

AI can also expand the creative possibilities for artists. For instance, AI algorithms can generate new and unique patterns, shapes, and colors, which artists can incorporate into their work.

AI could even aid in the conceptual aspects of art creation that humans have not conceived of before now. Beyond the creative stages of the artwork, AI can also help in the marketing and branding business side of the artist's career - the part which few artists enjoy.

### 3. Enhancing Accessibility

AI can make the creation of realistic art more accessible. Not everyone has the time, resources, or skill to create realistic art, but with AI, anyone can create a realistic piece of art with a few clicks of a button.

## The Future of Photorealistic Art in Conjunction with AI

Looking to the future, the integration of AI in the art world is likely to continue, and its influence on realism and photorealism will evolve. Here are a few possibilities:

### 1. Hybrid Art

We may see the rise of hybrid art, where artists and AI collaborate to create pieces that combine the best of both worlds: the creativity and personal touch of the artist, and the precision and efficiency of AI-generated systems.

(a future exhibition of Hybrid works by a human and AI collaboration)

### 2. New Art Movements

The integration of AI in art could also give rise to new art movements that blend traditional techniques with AI-generated elements. This could lead to a whole new era of creativity and innovation in the art world.

### 3. Enhanced Art Education

AI could also revolutionize art education. For instance, AI could be used to create interactive tutorials that adapt to the learner's skill level, making it easier for people to learn and master the techniques of realism and photorealism.

(AI could be used in schools to enhance the learning of skills)

In conclusion, while AI poses significant challenges to the art world, particularly in the realms of realism and photorealism, it also offers exciting opportunities for enhancement and innovation. As with any technological advancement, it is up to us to navigate these challenges and harness the potential of AI to enrich, rather than diminish, our artistic endeavors.

Unraveling my "Peach hypothesis": The Art of Perception and Representation

Art, in its many forms, serves as a mirror to the world, reflecting back to us the beauty, complexity, and diversity that surrounds us. As a photorealist artist, I've often found myself at the receiving end of comments like, "Oh, it looks just like a photo." While such remarks are undoubtedly flattering, they also provoke a sense of curiosity and reflection. What if this artist's goal is to paint a representation of the real objects depicted in their paintings rather than a facsimile of a photograph of said object? This led me to develop what I call the "Peach hypothesis," a concept that explores the intricate relationship between perception, representation, and reality.

The Peach Hypothesis is based on the premise that our brains create templates of the things we see and experience in our environment. Let's take a peach as an example. When we look at a peach, our brain doesn't merely see a fruit; it recognizes a series of objective descriptors or sub-templates that categorize a peach as a peach. These descriptors could include being a fruit, having a pale orangy color with redder areas, being spherical in shape, and having a diameter of about 10-15 cm.

These sub-templates are not just standalone entities; they form part of a larger main template labeled as 'a peach' in our minds. Over time, our brains collect new sub-templates and add them to our mental template database. The expansiveness of this database determines how accurately we can identify things in the real world. 

Consider a nectarine, for instance. It ticks off all the sub-template descriptors of the main peach template, including some "not sub-templates" like not being an apple or a banana. The primary difference between the two fruits is their skin texture, and without this knowledge, one could easily mistake a nectarine for a type of peach.

This cognitive process brings us to the crux of the Peach Hypothesis, which seeks to explain why people often compare a photorealistic painting to a photograph rather than the real objects depicted. A photorealistic or hyperrealistic painting ticks nearly all of the sub-template descriptors of a photograph and fewer descriptors of the real objects or scenes. Most notably, a painting lacks the three-dimensional aspect of the real world that a photograph captures.

Our brains are wired to perceive and process information based on familiarity and patterns. When we look at a photorealistic painting, our brains immediately draw upon the familiar templates associated with photographs. The high level of detail, the precision of the lines, the accuracy of the colors, all these elements align with our mental template of a photograph. Consequently, our immediate reaction is to compare the painting to a photograph, even though the painting is a representation of real objects or scenes.

This phenomenon underscores the fascinating interplay between perception and representation. As an artist, my aim is not merely to replicate a photograph but to capture the essence of the real objects depicted in my paintings. I strive to create art that goes beyond the two-dimensional constraints of a photograph, art that engages the viewer's senses and emotions, and sparks their imagination.

The Peach Hypothesis is not just about understanding how we perceive art; it's about redefining the boundaries of representation. It challenges us to look beyond the surface, to question our perceptions, and to appreciate the depth and complexity of the world around us. It invites us to view art not just as a reflection of reality but as a portal to a world of endless possibilities.

In conclusion, the Peach Hypothesis is a testament to the power and potential of art. It underscores the importance of perception in shaping our understanding and appreciation of the world around us. As an artist, it serves as a constant reminder to strive for authenticity and depth in my work, to create art that transcends the confines of a photograph and captures the essence of the real world. After all, art is not just about mirroring reality; it's about enriching our perception and experience of it.

The Art of Miniature Painting: An Evolution of Skill and Precision

Miniature painting is a form of art that involves painting intricate, detailed artworks on a small scale. Throughout history, this unique art form has captivated artists and enthusiasts alike, evolving and transforming over the years. From its origins in ancient civilizations to its present-day manifestations, miniature painting has experienced various changes, influenced by cultural shifts, technological advancements, and individual artistic styles. In this article, we will explore the fascinating journey of miniature painting and delve into its evolution, highlighting the significant developments that have shaped this intricate art form. 1. Origins of Miniature Painting: The roots of miniature painting can be traced back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Greeks, and Persians. These early artists showcased their skills by creating small-scale illustrations in manuscripts, religious texts, and even on the surfaces of precious objects. Miniature paintings were prized for their delicate details and exquisite craftsmanship.

2. Medieval Illuminated Manuscripts: During the medieval period, miniature painting found its most prominent expression in illuminated manuscripts. These manuscripts, typically religious or literary texts, were adorned with intricate illustrations and decorations. The artists, known as illuminators, utilized vibrant pigments and gold leaf to create captivating scenes and ornate borders. Examples like the Book of Kells and the Très Riches Heures du Duc de Berry exemplify the skill and dedication of medieval miniature painters.
3. Renaissance and the Rise of Portrait Miniatures: As the Renaissance unfolded, the focus of miniature painting shifted towards portraiture. Artists sought to capture the likeness and personality of their subjects on a small scale. Portrait miniatures, often painted on ivory or vellum, became highly sought-after as keepsakes or tokens of affection. The works of famous artists like Nicholas Hilliard and Hans Holbein the Younger exemplify the meticulous attention to detail and technical prowess that defined this period.

4. Mughal Miniatures in India: In India, the Mughal Empire witnessed the development of a distinctive style of miniature painting. Combining elements of Persian, Indian, and Central Asian art, Mughal miniatures portrayed various subjects, including courtly life, religious scenes, and natural landscapes. These paintings displayed a harmonious blend of intricate details, vibrant colors, and a strong sense of narrative. Notable Mughal miniaturists include Abd al-Samad, Basawan, and Daswant.

5. The Influence of Western Art Movements: During the 18th and 19th centuries, miniature painting was influenced by Western art movements, such as the Rococo and Neoclassicism. Artists experimented with new techniques, including enamel painting on metal, and expanded the subject matter beyond portraits. Miniatures began to depict genre scenes, landscapes, and historical events, reflecting the changing interests and tastes of the time. 6. The Revival of Miniature Painting in the 20th Century: In the 20th century, miniature painting experienced a revival as artists sought to revive and preserve this unique art form. The Society of Miniaturists was established in 1896, followed by the founding of the Royal Society of Miniature Painters, Sculptors, and Gravers in 1896 in London. Artists like Laurence C. Elder and Helen M. Turner played crucial roles in promoting the art of miniature painting and pushing its boundaries. 7. Contemporary Miniature Painting: In contemporary times, miniature painting continues to evolve, with artists incorporating new materials, techniques, and subject matter. The advent of digital technology has expanded the possibilities of miniature painting, enabling artists to create intricate works on digital platforms. Traditional techniques, such as watercolor and oil, are still widely practiced, but contemporary artists are also experimenting with mixed media, collage, and conceptual approaches.

Conclusion: The art of miniature painting has come a long way since its ancient origins. From the exquisite illuminated manuscripts of the medieval period to the delicate portrait miniatures of the Renaissance, and the vibrant Mughal miniatures in India, this art form has continuously evolved, adapting to the changing times while preserving its intrinsic charm. The resurgence of miniature painting in the 20th century and its ongoing transformation in the contemporary era demonstrate the enduring appeal and relevance of this intricate art form. As artists continue to explore new techniques and push the boundaries of miniature painting, it is evident that this timeless art will continue to captivate and inspire generations to come.

Illustrations: 1. An illuminated manuscript from the medieval period, showcasing intricate miniature paintings and decorative borders.
2. A portrait miniature by Nicholas Hilliard, exemplifying the meticulous detail and skill of Renaissance miniature painters.
3. A Mughal miniature painting depicting courtly life in the Indian subcontinent, showcasing the vibrant colors and intricate details.
4. Contemporary miniature paintings, showcasing the fusion of traditional techniques with a modern approach, highlighting the evolving nature of this art form by Tom Mulliner

Photorealism vs. Hyperrealism: A Deep Dive into Two Remarkable Fine Art Movements

In the realm of fine art, the terms photorealism and hyperrealism are often used interchangeably. However, these two movements, while sharing similarities, are distinct in their approach to creating visually stunning and lifelike images. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between photorealism and hyperrealism, delving into their origins, techniques, and the artists who have made significant contributions to these movements.

Photorealism: The Art of Mimicking Reality

Photorealism emerged as an art movement in the late 1960s and early 1970s in the United States. It was a response to the abstract expressionist movement, which dominated the art world at the time. Photorealist artists aimed to create paintings that were so detailed and accurate that they could be mistaken for photographs. This required incredible skill and patience, as artists would closely study their photographic references and meticulously reproduce them on canvas.

Some of the key characteristics of photorealist art include:

1. The use of photographs as the primary source material for creating the artwork.

2. A focus on achieving an extremely high level of detail and accuracy in the final painting.

3. The incorporation of elements such as reflections, shadows, and textures to enhance the illusion of reality.

4. A tendency to depict everyday scenes and objects, often devoid of any emotional or symbolic content.

Notable photorealist artists include Chuck Close, Richard Estes, and Audrey Flack. Close, for example, is known for his large-scale portraits that are so detailed that individual pores and hairs are visible. Estes, on the other hand, specializes in urban landscapes, capturing the reflections and distortions of glass storefronts and shiny surfaces with remarkable precision.

Hyperrealism: A Step Beyond Reality

While photorealism focuses on accurately reproducing photographs, hyperrealism takes this concept a step further. Emerging in the early 2000s, hyperrealism is an evolution of photorealism that pushes the boundaries of what is visually possible. Hyperrealist artists aim to create images that are not only incredibly detailed and lifelike but also possess a certain level of emotional resonance and narrative depth.

Some of the distinguishing features of hyperrealism include:

1. The use of high-resolution photographs, often taken by the artists themselves, as reference material.

2. An emphasis on achieving even greater levels of detail and precision than photorealism.

3. The incorporation of subtle elements that may not be present in the original photograph, such as exaggerated lighting, depth, or texture, to heighten the sense of reality.

4. A focus on creating a narrative or emotional connection with the viewer, often through the choice of subject matter or the manipulation of visual elements.

Prominent hyperrealist artists include Roberto Bernardi, Pedro Campos, and Jason de Graaf. Bernardi's still-life paintings of everyday objects like candy and glassware showcase his incredible attention to detail and ability to manipulate light and reflections. Campos, meanwhile, is known for his strikingly realistic urban landscapes that often feature vintage cars and neon signs, evoking a sense of nostalgia and longing.

Key Differences Between Photorealism and Hyperrealism

While both photorealism and hyperrealism share a commitment to creating visually stunning and lifelike images, there are some key differences between the two movements:

1. Emotional and narrative depth: Photorealist works tend to be more focused on technical accuracy and often lack the emotional resonance or narrative depth found in hyperrealist pieces. Hyperrealist artists aim to create a connection with the viewer, either through their choice of subject matter or the manipulation of visual elements.

2. Level of detail: While both movements emphasize detail and precision, hyperrealist artists often push the boundaries of what is visually possible, achieving even greater levels of detail than their photorealist counterparts.

3. Manipulation of reality: Photorealist artists typically strive to reproduce their photographic references as accurately as possible, while hyperrealist artists may introduce subtle changes or exaggerations to heighten the sense of reality and create a more immersive experience for the viewer.

Conclusion

Photorealism and hyperrealism are two remarkable fine art movements that showcase the incredible skill and dedication of the artists involved. While both movements share a commitment to creating lifelike images, they differ in their approach to detail, emotional resonance, and the manipulation of reality. As technology continues to advance and artists find new ways to push the boundaries of what is visually possible, it will be exciting to see how these movements continue to evolve and inspire future generations of artists.

The Future of Photorealist Art: AI-Generated Image-Making Tools Empower Artists.

Photorealist art has always been a fascinating genre, captivating audiences with its ability to depict scenes and objects with incredible accuracy, detail, and depth. With the advent of new technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), the future of photorealist art is set to be even more exciting and transformative. AI-generated image-making tools are now giving artists superpowers to create works of art that push the boundaries of human imagination and redefine the very essence of creativity.

The development of AI-generated image-making tools has opened up a world of possibilities for artists. These tools, which employ deep learning algorithms and neural networks, can analyze vast amounts of visual data and generate images based on specific input parameters. This allows artists to create photorealist art with unprecedented speed, precision, and complexity.

For instance, tools like DeepArt and Runway ML enable users to create unique and visually stunning images by combining the style of one artwork with the content of another. With this technology, artists can effortlessly merge the aesthetic of a Renaissance painting with a modern cityscape or blend the intricate patterns of a tribal textile with a lush, natural landscape.

Moreover, AI-generated image-making tools can also help artists overcome the limitations of traditional photorealist techniques. By using AI to analyze and generate images, artists can create photorealist art that transcends the boundaries of human perception and captures scenes that are otherwise impossible to depict. This includes capturing microscopic details, creating images with hyperrealistic textures, and even simulating the passage of time within a single artwork.

Empowering Artists: The Superpowers of AI-Generated Image-Making Tools

The introduction of AI-generated image-making tools has the potential to empower artists in several ways:

1. Enhancing creativity: AI-generated image-making tools can help artists explore new creative avenues and generate ideas that they may not have considered otherwise. By using AI to generate images, artists can experiment with different styles, techniques, and subject matter, and ultimately push the boundaries of their artistic expression.

2. Streamlining the creative process: AI-generated image-making tools can significantly reduce the time and effort required to create photorealist art. By automating certain aspects of the creative process, artists can focus on the more conceptual and imaginative aspects of their work, allowing them to produce more art in less time.

3. Expanding artistic possibilities: AI-generated image-making tools can help artists create photorealist art that is not just visually impressive but also deeply meaningful and thought-provoking. By using AI to generate images that challenge conventional notions of reality, artists can create works of art that invite viewers to question their perceptions and engage in critical reflection.

4. Democratizing art: AI-generated image-making tools can make the creation of photorealist art more accessible to a wider range of artists, regardless of their technical skill or experience. By simplifying the creative process and providing a wealth of resources and inspiration, AI-generated image-making tools can help democratize the world of photorealist art and foster a more inclusive and diverse artistic community.

The future of photorealist art is undoubtedly exciting, with AI-generated image-making tools poised to revolutionize the way artists create and engage with their work. By harnessing the power of AI, artists can unlock new creative possibilities, streamline their creative process, and produce works of art that challenge and inspire. As AI-generated image-making tools continue to evolve and become more sophisticated, the future of photorealist art will be shaped by the artists who embrace these new technologies and use them to push the boundaries of human imagination.

How Photorealist Artists Can Use AI Image Generators as a Reference Source for Their Artwork

Fine art is a form of expression that requires creativity, skill, and imagination. Fine artists often use reference sources to inspire and guide their artistic process. Reference sources can be anything from photographs, sketches, books, magazines, to real-life observations. However, sometimes finding the right reference source can be difficult or time-consuming. You may not have the resources, the opportunity, or the inspiration to find what you need.

That’s why AI image generators can be a great alternative for fine artists. AI image generators are online tools that can create realistic images from text descriptions. You can simply type in what you want to see, and the AI will generate an image for you in seconds. You can also choose from different styles, such as realistic, cartoon, abstract, or fantasy.

AI image generators can help fine artists in many ways. Here are some of the benefits of using AI image generators as a reference source for your artwork:

You can create custom images that match your vision and style. You can specify the details, colors, lighting, and mood of your image. You can also edit and tweak the image until you are satisfied with the result.

You can explore new ideas and possibilities that you may not have thought of before. You can generate images based on keywords, phrases, or sentences. You can also combine different elements or genres to create unique and original images.

You can save time and money that you would otherwise spend on finding or creating reference sources. You don’t need to travel, hire models, buy props, or set up a studio. You can generate images anytime and anywhere with just a few clicks.

You can learn from the AI and improve your skills. You can study how the AI creates images based on text descriptions. You can also compare your own artwork with the AI-generated images and see what you can improve or change.

AI image generators are not meant to replace your creativity or originality. They are meant to enhance and support your artistic process. You can use AI image generators as a reference source for your artwork, but you still need to apply your own vision, interpretation, and expression to create your own masterpiece.

If you are interested in trying out AI image generators for yourself, here are some of the best ones you can use:

DALL-E: This is one of the most advanced and popular AI image generators on the market. It was created by OpenAI, the same company behind GPT-3. It can generate images from any text description, no matter how complex or absurd.

Anonymizer: This is a tool that can generate realistic portraits of people who do not exist. It can also change the age, gender, ethnicity, hairstyle, and facial features of any person. It is useful for creating diverse and varied characters for your artwork.

Deep Dream Generator: This is a tool that can transform any image into a surreal and psychedelic masterpiece. It uses a technique called deep dreaming, which is based on how neural networks perceive images. It is great for creating abstract and expressive artwork.

Artbreeder: This is a tool that can create and breed new images from existing ones. It uses a technique called generative adversarial networks (GANs), which are composed of two competing neural networks. It is ideal for creating variations and mutations of your artwork.

These are just some of the examples of AI image generators that you can use as a reference source for your artwork. There are many more out there that you can explore and experiment with. AI image generators are not only fun and easy to use, but they can also help you unleash your creativity and improve your skills as a fine artist. 

How to Learn Drawing in 2023 (It Has Never Been Easier)

Drawing is a wonderful skill that can bring joy, relaxation, and creativity to your life. Whether you want to draw for fun, for work, or for self-expression, you can learn how to do it with some guidance and practice. In this blog post, I will share with you some tips and resources that can help you learn drawing in 2023. ## Why Learn Drawing? Drawing has many benefits for your mind and body. Here are some of them: - Drawing improves your **observation skills**. When you draw, you pay attention to the shapes, colors, textures, and details of your subject. You also learn how to see things from different perspectives and angles. - Drawing enhances your **memory and imagination**. When you draw from memory or imagination, you activate your brain's visual cortex and hippocampus, which are responsible for storing and retrieving visual information. You also stimulate your creativity and problem-solving skills. - Drawing boosts your **self-confidence and self-esteem**. When you draw, you express yourself and your emotions. You also create something unique and original that reflects your personality and style. You can also share your drawings with others and receive feedback and encouragement. - Drawing relaxes your **mind and body**. When you draw, you enter a state of flow, which is a state of optimal focus and enjoyment. You also release endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood enhancers. ## How to Learn Drawing? Learning to draw is not as hard as you might think. It does not require any special talent or equipment. All you need is a pencil, a paper, and a willingness to learn. Here are some steps that can help you learn drawing: - **Start with the basics**. Before you jump into drawing complex subjects, you need to master the basic elements of drawing, such as lines, shapes, values, proportions, perspective, and composition. These are the building blocks of any drawing and will help you create realistic and expressive drawings. - **Practice regularly**. The best way to improve your drawing skills is to practice as much as you can. Set aside some time every day or every week to draw something that interests you. You can draw from life, from photos, from books, or from your imagination. The more you draw, the more comfortable and confident you will become. - **Learn from tutorials**. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you how to draw different subjects and styles. You can find tutorials on YouTube³, Udemy⁵, Skillshare², and more. The best way to learn drawing from tutorials is to work with at least 2-3 comprehensive books or courses written by artists that have teaching experience¹. You can also follow along with the videos or exercises and try to replicate what you see. - **Get feedback**. Another way to learn drawing is to get feedback from other people who can offer constructive criticism and advice. You can join online communities such as Reddit³, DeviantArt³, or Instagram³ where you can share your drawings and receive comments and suggestions from other artists. You can also ask for feedback from your friends or family members who can support you and motivate you. - **Have fun**. The most important thing to remember when learning to draw is to have fun. Drawing is not a competition or a test. It is a personal journey that can enrich your life in many ways. Don't be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and try new things. Enjoy the process and celebrate your progress. ## What to Draw? If you are wondering what to draw, here are some ideas that can inspire you: - **Draw yourself**. One of the most challenging but rewarding subjects to draw is yourself. You can draw a self-portrait using a mirror or a photo as a reference. You can also draw yourself in different situations or emotions, such as happy, sad, angry, or surprised. - **Draw animals**. Animals are fascinating creatures that come in all shapes and sizes. You can draw realistic animals using photos or videos as references, or you can draw cartoon animals using simple shapes and lines. You can also draw mythical animals such as dragons or unicorns using your imagination. - **Draw landscapes**. Landscapes are beautiful scenes that capture the essence of nature. You can draw realistic landscapes using photos or sketches as references, or you can draw imaginary landscapes using your creativity. You can also draw urban landscapes such as cities or buildings using perspective and composition. - **Draw objects**. Objects are everyday things that surround us and have different forms and functions. You can draw realistic objects using observation and shading, or you can draw stylized objects using shapes and colors. You can also draw abstract objects using lines and patterns. - **Draw characters**. Characters are people or creatures that have personality and story. You can draw realistic characters using anatomy and proportions, or you can draw cartoon characters using exaggeration and expression. You can also draw fantasy characters such as elves or wizards using your imagination. ## Conclusion Drawing is a skill that anyone can learn with some guidance and practice. It has many benefits for your mind and body, and it can bring joy, relaxation, and creativity to your life. In this blog post, I shared with you some tips and resources that can help you learn drawing in 2023. I hope you found them useful and inspiring. Now, grab your pencil and paper, and start drawing! 😊

The effect of AI-generated imagery on photorealist artists and their work.

The growth of AI-generated imagery has had a significant impact on the art world, particularly in the realm of photorealistic art. Photorealistic artists have long relied on photo references to create their work, but the availability of AI-generated imagery has opened up new possibilities for these artists.

One of the main benefits of using AI-generated imagery as a reference for photorealistic art is the ability to access an unlimited number of images. With AI-generated imagery, artists can access a vast library of images that they can use as a reference for their work. This allows them to create more complex and detailed works of art, as they can draw from a wider range of sources.

Another benefit of using AI-generated imagery as a reference for photorealistic art is the ability to manipulate the images to suit the artist's needs. With AI-generated imagery, artists can adjust the lighting, colour, and composition of the image to create the desired effect. This allows them to create works of art that are more personalised and unique.

The rapid rise of text-to-image generators powered by artificial intelligence has also had a significant impact on photorealistic art. These AI models can generate photorealistic images from a simple text description. This technology has been embraced by some creatives, but has also raised concerns about its impact on the future of art.

The emergence of AI tools such as Dall-E 2, Stable Diffusion, and Midjourney has also had a significant impact on photorealistic art. These tools have shown a marked improvement in their ability to generate fine-tuned photorealistic compositions. They allow artists to type in any surreal prompt and receive a startlingly accurate depiction moments later.

Another tool that has added to the power of original image creation when used simultaneously with image-generators is Adobe's new Generative Fill tool to Photoshop. This tool uses cloud-based image synthesis to fill selected areas of an image with new AI-generated content based on a text description². Adobe also has Firefly with many more useful AI tools on the horizon.

However, there are also potential drawbacks to using AI-generated imagery as a reference for photorealistic art. One of the main concerns is that it may lead to a loss of creativity and originality in the art world. If artists rely too heavily on AI-generated imagery, they may become less innovative and less willing to take risks in their work.

Despite these concerns, many photorealistic artists have embraced AI-generated imagery as a valuable tool in their work. By combining the precision and detail of AI-generated imagery with their own creativity and vision, these artists are able to create works of art that are both technically impressive and emotionally resonant. As AI technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see even more exciting developments in the world of photorealistic art.

Tom Mulliner 2023

Additional Exhibition Pieces from last year.

For my first solo exhibition last year, (The Grand Delusion)



I created several more charcoal pieces as follows:

More Than Just a Pear,

Bowl of Cherries V,

& Halfling.

In addition to the above, the exhibition included:

Large Grapes

Large Grapes is a painting based on a composition of two previous pieces I made a few years ago - Bowl of Cherries III & IV (pictured below).

They feature an offset bowl of cherries in charcoal with one or two fruits separated from the rest.

Although slightly unconventional, this composition seemed to work well and when the time was right for me to move into using colour, the transition of media from charcoal to oils was hassle-free.

And so, Large Grapes was born!!

The introduction of an elaborate French-style frame completed the piece.

S-Z by Surname - Hyperrealist/photorealist Artist Bloglist

Kate Sammons


Cesar Santander


Josep & Pere Santilari


Jamie Salmon & Jackie K. Seo


Laura Sanders

Fred Schley


Pablo Santibanez Servat


Ben Schonzeit


Glen Semple

Cathy Sheeter

Mark Sijan


Joe Simpson

Scott Sjobakken

Brian Slawson

Adrian Smart


Steve Smulka


Mario Ernesto Soto

Rudy Sparkhul


Tjalf Sparnaay


Raphaella Spence


Robert Standish


Joseph Stashevech

Scott Steele

Adam Stennett


Paul Stone


Christopher Stott



Linnea Strid


Equipo Sur


Ramon Surinyac

Edward Sutcliffe


Paolo Tagliaferro


Andrew Talbot


Ruddy Taveras


Gregory Thielker


Tian Haibo

Kari Tirrell


Antonio Tordesillas


Javier Torices


Bernardo Torrens


Modesto Trigo Trigo

Marc Trujillo

Tigran Tsitoghdzyan

Glenray Tutor


Elizabeth Tyler

Jeff Uffelman

Henrik Aarrestad Uldalen


Guennadi Ulibin


Sadie Valeri


Jaime Valero


Bernard Verkaaik


Luciano Ventrone


Mariano Venditti

Lorenzo Lo Vermi

Norlan Vilchez

Julmard Vicente


Adam Vinson


Ernest Viveiros

Anthony Waichulis


Leah Waichulis


Carly Waito


Nathan Walsh


Kate Waters

Wang Yihua

Doug Webb


Ben Weiner


Philipp Weber


Johannes Wessmark


Cynthia Westwood


Harriet White


James White


Pamela Wilson


Dan Witz


Dennis Wojtkiewicz


Chelsey Tyler Wood

Nigel Wood


Alan Wolfson

Cindy Wright

Craig Wylie


Ken Yang


Chen Ying


Maurizio Zanotto

Eric Zener


Armando Zesatti


Ronen Zlotogoura