Exploring Art Through Technique and Technology: My Journey

Born and raised in the heart of Paris, I've always been surrounded by the vibrant art scene that pulses through the city streets. The intricate designs and beautiful illustrations captivated me from a young age, and I dreamed of one day adding my own creations to this rich tapestry.

After studying animation and graphic design at l'Atelier de Sèvres, I began my career as an animator in Paris. Yet, I felt something was missing. In 2021, I made the bold decision to move to Vancouver, Canada, seeking new inspiration and creative opportunities.

In this blog post, I want to share my artistic journey, the role of AI in my creative process, and how I've navigated the complexities of modern artistry.

What Has Been My Artistic Career? Did I Have Any Special Studies?

I've always enjoyed drawing since I was a kid. This passion led me to study animation and graphic design at l'Atelier de Sèvres in Paris. The education I received there was invaluable, yet I never truly found my place in the world of animation.

After my studies, I began focusing more on illustrations and appreciated the technical freedom it offered me. About a year and a half ago, I decided to learn to paint because, like many others, I wanted to rediscover the sensations that traditional art could offer.

It's somewhat paradoxical, given that I sometimes paint from AI references. But I think this antithesis represents me perfectly. It embodies the blend of traditional techniques and modern technology that defines much of contemporary art.

Why do I use AI in some of my creative process?

While I understand that this may be disappointing for some of you, I've always taken great pleasure in creating or reproducing what has captured my eye. I don't see myself strictly as an artist but rather as a technician with a critical eye for various forms of art.

For a long time, I blamed myself for not being among those who can imagine the unimaginable, driven by boundless creativity. However, as I've come to better understand myself, I've realized that my true strength lies in my appreciation for technique and form.

Artificial intelligence serves as an additional source of inspiration—a tool that allows me to explore new perspectives without attempting to revolutionize the art world. I've copied certain artists over the years, hoping to find my own style, but that day never quite arrived. Instead, I've embraced the role of a craftsman, someone who knows how to appreciate beauty and translate it into painting and illustration.

I understand that AI is a highly sensitive topic within our community, and I deeply respect the concerns and debates surrounding it. It's difficult for me to take a firm stance because my personal creativity or how my work is used isn't what matters most to me. What's important is the joy I find in mastering techniques and bringing images that move me to life.

What other sources of inspiration do I draw on?

When I'm not using AI-generated images, most of my inspiration comes from platforms like Pinterest and Instagram. These platforms are treasure troves of creativity, showcasing a myriad of styles and ideas from artists around the world.

Of course, I also draw from my own experiences. Living in Paris and now Vancouver has exposed me to diverse cultures and landscapes. However, I often struggle to fully convey what I truly feel through my art. Sometimes, I come up with my own ideas and bring them to life, or I create a mix of both external inspiration and personal imagination.

This is a challenging conversation to have because my aim isn't to be known as someone who solely relies on AI. I strive to vary my creations, especially within my work as an illustrator.

What Role Does AI Play in My Art?

AI plays different roles depending on what I'm doing and how I want to approach it. When I want to practice technique for my paintings, I sometimes copy an image generated with AI to challenge myself with color and form. It pushes me to explore combinations and structures I might not have conceived on my own.

Other times, AI serves merely as a source of inspiration—a reference point for colors, shapes, or compositions. It's similar to how artists have used photographs or live models in the past.

However, when I'm working with clients on professional projects, especially within my illustration agency Début Art London, I have decided not to incorporate AI into my future works. I believe it's important to maintain authenticity and originality in professional settings, respecting both the client's requirements and the integrity of the art.

Current Projects and Collaborations

In addition to my personal projects, I've been working on several commissions and collaborations with businesses and organizations such as Spotify. These opportunities have allowed me to connect with a larger community.

Looking Ahead: Future Aspirations

Lately, I've become increasingly interested in 3D. I believe it holds immense potential for creating reference images for future paintings. This interest aligns with my ongoing exploration of blending traditional techniques with modern technology.

Through my work, I hope to continue inspiring others and fostering a sense of wonder and appreciation. Whether through traditional methods or innovative tools, my goal is to keep learning ans growing.

Final Thoughts

I wanted to share these reflections with you to open up a genuine conversation about art, creativity, and the tools we use to express ourselves. The world of art is vast and diverse, and there's room for all forms of expression.

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey.

With love,

Manocki