Meet Native!
Native (IG: @luceo.non.uro) is a multidisciplinary artist and graphic designer based in Belgium. Her work explores themes of spirituality, sci-fi, culture, diversity, and inclusion, often featuring otherworldly creatures, places, and objects with spiritual undertones. Deeply committed to diversity, her art showcases a wide range of portraits representing people from various backgrounds and experiences. Her surreal worlds alternate between striking black-and-white imagery and vibrant neon colors, reflecting her unique vision.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got interested in AI art?
My name is Native. I am a multidisciplinary artist who works across photography, analog and digital collage, graphic design, painting, and video. My journey as an artist has been deeply shaped by a diverse career and personal challenges.
In February 2023, I started exploring new tools in AI and generative art, unveiling a world of infinite possibilities. I took my first steps by using the app Dream by Wombo, then I was drawn into the magic cauldron of Midjourney, which I continue to explore today.
Through my collaboration with AI, I create a dialogue between human creativity and machine intelligence, resulting in artworks that challenge conventional perceptions of what is possible in the realm of contemporary art.
Who or what are your artistic inspirations, and if you had the opportunity to collaborate with any artist, who would it be, and why?
As a highly sensitive person, I am constantly stimulated by the world around me. Shapes, colors, textures, sounds, and music attract my attention and become part of my inner universe. It's like a scan that is constantly processing. I also draw inspiration from my personal experiences, spiritual and shamanic journeys. So, inspiration is everywhere.
I grew up in a rich culture of visual arts, absorbing photography, cinema and music videos. I'm an avid fan of David Lynch and Alejandro Jodorowsky. I love the universe of Michel Gondry a lot too.
If I had the opportunity to work with any artist, I would like to work with electronic music producers to take up the challenge of visually translating their musical universe. VJing attracts me so much! Create a unique, immersive visual experience is something I’ve been dreaming about doing for a long time but I still have to learn.
How do you approach the creative process when working with AI?
I have a very intuitive way of creating. It really depends on the project I want to develop. Sometimes I research within my own collection to find some artworks to recreate by blending them together. These might come from my analog collage folders, my photographs or previously generated AI artworks. I love adding my own photos to influence the outcomes.
When I want to create on a more specific topic, I do some research on the web. I search for accurate terms which I then use in my prompts.
To overcome creative blocks, I like to use the "describe" parameter. Then I can discover interesting words and new ideas to incorporate into my future prompts. It surely differs from traditional art mediums at some points because the creation is a collaboration with the machine. It is like inviting someone with their own language and vision to take part to the creative party.
Can you share a specific artwork or moment that transformed your perspective on AI art?
I am currently working on the creation of a Tarot deck generated by AI. The Tarot is an initiatory book that originated in Italy in the 15th century. It can be used as a divinatory tool, a support for reflection, or a tool for personal development. It presents itself through a coded visual language that conveys useful information to guide us in our personal quest.
I have been reading Tarot and oracle cards for almost 30 years, and I own a collection of 200 decks, but to create my own Tarot was very intimidating. The challenge is to find a balance between respecting traditional meaning and incorporating my personal creative vision while successfully conveying both.
So far, I have created six visuals for the Major Arcana. I use the color palette of the first card I created as a reference to maintain consistency throughout the journey. I will probably adopt a different color scheme for each of the four Minor Arcana suits. I’m progressing thoughtfully, slowly but surely. It is a project that really matters to me.
How has working with AI in art influenced your mental and emotional wellbeing?
AI creation offers a freedom of accessibility, time, and space. The impulse to create can be satisfied immediately. Unlike collage or painting, which require materials and enough space, AI generation can be done just with my mobile phone and a wifi connection. I live with a chronic illness, and the immediate availability to create and escape into my imagination is fantastic.
However, it is vital to balance time spent with technology and time spend with loved ones and in nature. Generating with AI can quickly become addictive, and in today’s fast-paced digital world, many people are more connected to screens than to nature. The immediacy of technology can overshadow the slower, more mindful experiences that come from being in tune with nature.
We must keep this in mind and use these tools wisely and consciously.
How do you engage with the broader AI and digital artist community?
When I finish an artwork, I like to connect with people worldwide through my art by sharing it on various social media platforms. It’s a valuable process and a great remedy for the isolation that chronic illness can cause. Being connected to others, physically and/or virtually, is so important for wellbeing.
I enjoy participating in many art challenges or open calls. This is stimulating and pushes me out of my comfort zone. Interactions in this environment is very enriching.
The AI community never ceases to amaze me. I have meet so many interesting and open-minded people since I started my AI exploration. I truly believe that because it involves revolutionary tools, it attracts people who love innovation, are curious and love to learn. It's an inspiring and supportive community, and I feel grateful to be a part of it.
What advice or encouragement would you give to aspiring women and non-binary folks who are interested in pursuing AI art?
Just try it! Learn everything you can about the subject. There are many free resources and tutorials to help you dive into the world of AI. Follow other artists and get inspired. Don't hesitate to ask someone already involved if you need help. People in this community are so passionate and ready to help others.
Don't compare yourself to others in a negative way. It takes time to find your own style and that’s okay. Be kind to yourself. Never forget that the time dedicated to your art is just as important as any other commitment you have. Make it a priority. Don’t be afraid to explore unknowns territories, you might discover some very interesting things.
And above all, have fun!
For more of Native’s incredible work, make sure to visit her Instagram account: @luceo.non.uro