Jillian, also known as @creative.principle on Instagram, is an extraordinary AI artist and creative director based in London. She skillfully melds technology and art, creating magnificent still life images using AI. Her work is a symphony of radiant colors and masterful lighting, reminiscent of the masterpieces of the 17th-century Dutch painters.
Her canvas often features elements from nature—flowers, fungi, plants, and fruits—set in gentle, ethereal environments. Each piece appears as if bathed in heavenly light, demonstrating Jillian's excellent command of both illumination and tone. While primarily focusing on still life, she occasionally ventures into creating portraits of women, either set against the backdrop of nature or on a fashion runway, each rendered in her distinctive soft hues and delicate lighting.
Jillian's remarkable talent isn't limited to personal projects. As a creative director, she collaborates with various brands, and her work has been showcased in well-known magazines. Dive in to explore the world of creativeprinciples, where art and AI meet, creating a unique palette of visual poetry.
Meet Jillian!
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got interested in AI art?
Last May, I discovered AI Image Generation and decided to try DALL-E-2. By June, I had access to their beta version. I played around with it, however, I quickly lost interest as it didn't meet my expectations. In August, a friend introduced me to Midjourney. The impressive work she created with it sparked my curiosity. I loved the results and became determined to delve deeper. As someone in design and art direction, I've seen the changes that this industry goes through, and it's always a good idea to be curious about new creative mediums.
Can you walk us through your creative process when working with AI?
My creative process is ever-evolving, much like programs like Midjourney and Stable Diffusion. One constant, however, is my 'layering' technique, where I generate an image and then use it as a reference for a later prompt. I enjoy reusing past creations as much as possible. An essential aspect of my work process, especially initially, is to avoid referencing specific artists in my renderings. It's tempting to say, "I want this to resemble Dali or Picasso," but it's more rewarding to carve your own creative path using your unique artistic language.
How do you incorporate your personal experiences and emotions into your AI art, and how does it shape the final outcome?
For me, AI image generation is a way to escape. Like many, my workdays are mostly spent on a computer. However, on weekends, I seek solace in the forests and expansive green spaces around London. This affinity for nature and living things unmistakably influences my AI art.
How do you balance your work in AI art with other professional or personal pursuits?
My profession as an art director and my use of AI go hand in hand. It seamlessly integrates into my daily tasks. I also manage my own small creative studio and juggle multiple clients simultaneously. Incorporating AI art feels like accommodating a new client - the main difference being, often, I am the 'client' creating art for my personal pleasure.
What kind of message do you hope your art conveys to viewers?
I aspire for them to discover something in my work that compels them to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of life.
Who/what are your biggest artistic inspirations, and how have they influenced your work?
A clear influence on my work comes from Dutch masters and still life painters, like Rachel Ruysch. Additionally, the forest and nature significantly impact my art. It's during my nature walks that I find the greatest source of inspiration.
How do you engage with the Ai art community, and what benefits have you gained from being a part of a large artistic community?
The AI art community has been incredible! It's a space filled with collaboration and support. Through platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, I've connected with many members and even met a few in person. Each interaction invigorates my work with fresh enthusiasm. I feel very lucky to be part of it!
What advice would you give to other women who are interested in AI art?
Follow the beat of your own drum. If you're curious, just go for it. Everyone has to start somewhere, and there's no better time than the present.
For more of Jillian’s incredible work, make sure to visit her Instagram account: @creative.principle