In the spotlight this week is the remarkably talented Cora (IG: @toknowingher) from Seattle.
Her creative journey navigates through magical landscapes, whimsical characters, and strikingly vibrant hues, taking us on a spectacular visual adventure.
Cora's work, inspired largely by the beauty and complexity of nature, particularly focuses on fungi, imbuing her sci-fi characters with a unique and distinctive charm. Her application of neon colors brings her magical and mystical settings to life, making them almost leap off the screen with their electric vibrancy.
Not just an AI artist, Cora is also a passionate photographer and interested in creative writing, enriching her artistic expression with diverse experiences and skills. Her love for storytelling is evident in her AI creations, each one a visual narrative that beckons us into its captivating world.
Meet Cora!
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how you got interested in AI art?
Creative writing has always been my first love. A friend of mine, excited about the possibility of turning words into images, introduced me to this concept, and I found it truly intriguing. I started by experimenting with a few basic AI apps and then she directed me to Midjourney. Here, I fell in love with the ability to transform scripted words into images from my imagination.
Though I am not a stranger to the creative arts, having dabbled in drawing, painting, ceramics, glass blowing, and numerous other mediums, photography is where I've spent the most time developing my skills, particularly capturing emotion. With AI art, I've discovered that the more emotion I invest into my scripts, the more impressive the results.
Can you walk us through your creative process when working with AI?
My creative process with AI art varies significantly, often depending on the series I am currently working on. I like to consider myself an explorer and a partner with the machine. I conduct a lot of testing and occasionally write very complex sets, making use of all the different features. Then, I'll reverse engineer my own scripts, explain them back to myself, blend them with other designs I've generated in the past - it really depends on what I am feeling in the moment.
Sometimes, an exceptional deep dive into a subject or an art style will lead me to the library, where I research particular art theories, styles, textures, or obscure aspects. At other times, a walk in nature might fascinate me - the beauty of something as simple as tree bark can spark ten different ideas. I never dismiss my own ideas and am always willing to take risks and try new things.
How do you incorporate your personal experiences and emotions into your AI art, and how does it shape the final outcome?
I am certain about one thing: I don't shy away from diving into the deep end. Sometimes, I pour a lot of emotion into a series, intentionally choosing not to verbalize it. Other times, I create fun, surface-level imagery that makes me smile or amuses me. Feelings are always a part of my process because that's the kind of person I am - I don't really create unless I'm 'feeling' it. I would say that some of my best work comes from those deep emotional states, when I'm writing from there.
How do you balance your work in AI art with other professional or personal pursuits?
For now, I incorporate it into my routine as a hobby whenever I can. I juggle many responsibilities and other creative pursuits. Gradually, I'm working towards a pace that satisfies me.
What kind of message do you hope your art conveys to viewers?
I hope that my art not only inspires but also stirs emotions in viewers. I aim for my work to encourage others to express their authentic and original ideas.
Who/what are your biggest artistic inspirations, and how have they influenced your work?
Nature is my most significant artistic inspiration, with humans coming a close second. What inspires me the most is the interconnectedness of all living things and the beauty I witness in the living world around me.
How do you engage with the AI art community, and what benefits have you gained from being a part of a large artistic community?
Engaging with the AI art community has been transformative for me. I've found friends all around the world who are incredibly supportive, affirming, vibrant, and a joy to interact with nearly every day. I'm constantly inspired and humbled to be part of such a diverse and incredibly talented group of creatives.
I believe that AI will not only impact the future of art, but also every aspect of life as we know it. Instead of fearing this, I choose to remain optimistic and hopeful. I aspire to contribute to a future that embraces this technology, using it to make our world a better place for all living beings.
How do you see AI impacting the future of art, and where do you see yourself in that future?
What advice would you give to other women who are interested in AI art?
I would wholeheartedly say, GO FOR IT! Whether you're simply dipping your toes in or taking a full plunge, there's a world of possibilities to explore and experiment with in AI art. Even if you never share a single creation publicly, you might find the process incredibly therapeutic and rewarding.
For more of Cora’s incredible work, make sure to visit her Instagram account: @toknowingher