D36 No. 26: The #AIArt Newsletter Article

- It was the coolest thing... in 2023! -

By: Jim O'Flanagan

Author's Note: In late 2022, I got my first ChatGPT Plus account, shortly after OpenAI made these accounts available for the first time. Since then, I've been hacking away at writing prompts, exploring the capabilities and potential of large language models (LLMs) like ChatGPT.

The summer of 2023 marked a significant milestone with the release of AIArt generators that could create stunning still images. I dove into this technology in a big way, experimenting and pushing the boundaries of what AI-generated art could achieve.

As you know from the news, this field moves fast. We've quickly advanced from generating still images to producing AI-generated videos. OpenAI's Sora, an upcoming AI video generator, is due to be released very soon, promising to revolutionize the way we create and consume visual content.

My journey with AI art and ChatGPT has been an exhilarating ride, full of discovery and creativity. I look forward to sharing more of this exciting frontier with you in future editions of the AIArt Newsletter.

Article Summary

• Introduction to AI Art: AI art refers to images, videos, and other media generated by artificial intelligence algorithms, revolutionizing the art world in 2023.
• AI Video Trended Bigly in 2023: AI video is the latest trend, showcasing new creative possibilities with generative AI prompts.
• My TikTok Channel, and The TikTok Editor: My TikTok channel features AI art videos, leveraging the robust and user-friendly TikTok video editor for creating engaging content.
• My (2023) AI Video Editing Process: The process involves selecting a theme, picking music, generating images with AI prompts, and editing the video into a cohesive product.
• Video Summaries: Summaries of featured videos, detailing themes, music, and generative AI prompts used.
• AI Tools Used: Tools such as Davinci Resolve for video editing, aiarta for generating AI art images, and DALL-E for creating high-quality AI-generated visuals.
• About Apple's AI Announcement: Discusses the consolidation of AI technology among major tech giants and its impact on innovation.
• Conclusion: AI art and video editing offer new creative possibilities, and as the AI landscape evolves, more innovative applications are expected. Stay tuned to Deck 36 for more updates.

Article Playlist

1. Bob Seger, "Like A Rock." 1986.
2. Theme from: "The Six Million Dollar Man." 1973.
3. Danny Birt, "The Pi Day Song." 2011.
4. Cameo, "Word Up!" 1986.
5. Bill Withers & DMX, "Ain't No Sunshine." 1971 & 2001.
6. Dr. Dre, "Ring Ding Dong." 1995.
7. Creedence Clearwater Revival, "Have You Ever Seen The Rain." 1971.
8. Prince, "Partyman." 1989.
9. Johnny Cash, "Folsom Prison Blues." 1957.
10. Macy Gray, "Nutmeg Phantasy." 2001.
11. Cliff Friend & Dave Franklin, "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down." 1937.
12. A Tribe Called Quest, "Award Tour." 1993.
13. Ramin Djawadi, "Game of Thrones Main Title Theme." 2011.
14. Jim O'Flanagan, "Happy Birthday to Eli." 2023.

Introduction

Generative AI art has taken the world by storm, and 2023 was its breakout year. AI art refers to images, videos, and other media generated by artificial intelligence algorithms, mostly by "Generative" algorithms. This technology allows creators to produce stunning visuals by just typing a few words, making it a game-changer in the art world.

2023 saw AI art become mainstream, with AI-generated videos and images appearing in galleries, social media, and even major marketing campaigns. Artists and designers embraced this new tool, experimenting with its capabilities to push the boundaries of traditional art forms.

Museums and exhibitions (like The Met !) started showcasing AI-created masterpieces, drawing attention from art enthusiasts and critics alike. The versatility and efficiency of AI art have also led to its adoption in various industries, from advertising to entertainment, transforming the creative process and opening up new possibilities for visual expression. As AI technology continues to evolve, the future of art looks more dynamic and innovative than ever before.

AI Video Trended Bigly in 2023

OpenAI's Sora has been all over the news these past few months. Sora's technology generates video directly from a textual command prompt.

Last year, we used AI-generated stills to create our videos. Now, with the availability of Sora, we're excited to move over to this cutting-edge technology. One exciting aspect of this is that using AI to generate raw video is #Awesome. I can't wait to enhance this process with not just AI-generated stills, but video too.

AI video is the latest craze, offering endless creative possibilities. To demonstrate the potential of AI video, I decided to create a series of videos using simple Generative AI (GenAI) prompts. Below, I describe the creation process for each video, along with a representative GenAI prompt.

My (2023) AI Video Editing Process

Creating compelling AI art videos involves a meticulous and creative process that ensures each video actually means something to our audience. This is determined in a lot of ways, but mostly by direct interaction with you folks on this platform.

Here's a detailed look at how I craft these visual stories:

• Theme: Each video starts with a theme that resonates with the audience. The theme is the foundation, providing direction and purpose to the entire project. Whether it's a nostalgic tribute, a scientific celebration, or a dramatic retelling, the theme guides the creative process.

• Pick the Music: Music sets the tone, and I carefully select tracks that enhance the visual experience. The right music can evoke emotions, complement the visual elements, and create a seamless blend of audio and imagery that captivates viewers.

• GenAI Prompts: I use generative AI prompts to generate images and animations that fit the chosen theme. These prompts are designed to produce high-quality, relevant visuals that align with the narrative and add depth to the storytelling.

• Images: High-quality, AI-generated images form the backbone of the video. These images are meticulously selected and crafted to ensure they not only fit the theme but also stand out for their visual appeal and artistic merit.

• Cut the Video: Finally, I edit and compile the images and music into a cohesive video. This step involves careful timing, transitions, and effects to ensure that the final product is polished and professional, providing a satisfying and immersive viewing experience.

This process, combining creativity and technology, allows me to produce videos that are not only visually stunning but also deeply engaging and meaningful.

My TikTok Channel and the Power of TikTok Video Editor

I have been showcasing my AI art videos on my TikTok channel, where the TikTok video editor has proven to be an invaluable tool. Its user-friendly interface and robust editing capabilities make it perfect for creating engaging content. The combination of TikTok’s platform and AI art is a match made in heaven, allowing for easy sharing and rapid audience engagement.

CapCut, developed by ByteDance, the same company behind TikTok, is another powerful video editing tool that complements TikTok perfectly. CapCut offers advanced editing features that can enhance the quality of your videos, providing more control over the final product. It's especially beneficial for creators who want to produce professional-looking content without the need for extensive technical skills.

However, it's crucial to be cautious about sharing identifying data on these platforms. To protect your privacy, avoid sharing personal information within your videos and profiles. I usually use a burner phone when I edit videos on these platforms to ensure my privacy and security. By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the creative process while safeguarding your personal information.

https://www.tiktok.com/@jimoflanagan

AI Video Summaries

In this section, we present a collection of AI art videos that showcase the diverse possibilities of AI-generated content. Each video is accompanied by a brief summary, the music that enhances the visual experience, and the generative AI prompts used to create the images. These summaries offer a glimpse into the creative process and the thematic focus of each video.

1. "Like A Rock"

Music by: Bob Seger, "Like A Rock." 1986. Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/954851316/a077f21726?share=copy

• Summary: This video features AI-generated images inspired by the Bob Seger song "Like a Rock," capturing the nostalgic and resilient spirit of the song.
• Music: Bob Seger, "Like a Rock." 1986.
• GenAI Prompt: "Create images depicting scenes of strength and nostalgia."

2. "Steve Austin: The Six Million Dollar Man"

Music by: NBC, "Opening Theme for The Six Million Dollar Man." 1973.

Video Reference for Steve Austin: https://vimeo.com/954766052?share=copy

• Summary: A tribute to the classic TV show, this video uses AI art to reimagine Steve Austin in today's world, accounting for inflation.
• Music: The theme from "The Six Million Dollar Man." 1973.
• GenAI Prompt: "Generate futuristic images of a bionic man with advanced technology."

If you'd like to check out original episodes of the series, check out Peacock TV:

Link Reference: https://www.peacocktv.com/watch-online/tv/the-six-million-dollar-man/8626740019782170112

3. "Pi Day Celebration for 71st NEO Science Fair"

Music by: Danny Birt, "The Pi Day Song." 2011.

Happy Belated Pi Day. Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/954072176?share=copy

• Summary: This video celebrates Pi Day, explaining the significance of pi and the circle.
• Music: Danny Birt, "The Pi Day Song." 2011.
• GenAI Prompt: "Create educational images about pi, circles, and their importance."

4. Science Fair Highlights

Music by: Cameo, "Word Up!" 1986.

71st Annual Northeastern Ohio Science & Engineering Fair, where I volunteer as a judge every year.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/952739859?share=copy

• Summary: Highlights from the 70th Northeastern Ohio Science and Engineering Fair, showcasing innovative projects.
• Music: Cameo, "Word Up!" 1986.
• GenAI Prompt: "Generate images of young scientists presenting their projects."

A link to our Deck 36 Newsletter Article on the 71st NEO Science Fair:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-23-after-action-report-71st-neo-science-fair-james-o-flanagan-rfq6c/?trackingId=qF7o212IRW%2BBfYpmlLYY7g%3D%3D

5. "The Great Yellow Badge Heist of '23"

Bill Withers & DMX, "Ain't No Sunshine." 2001.

The Great Yellow Badge Heist of '23.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/952640064?share=copy

• Summary: A creative retelling of the intriguing events of the Great Yellow Badge Heist.
• Music: Bill Withers & DMX, "Ain't No Sunshine." 2001.
• GenAI Prompt: "Illustrate a heist involving yellow badges with a dramatic flair."

Link to great yellow badge heist newsletter article:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/posts/jimoflanagan_deck36newsletter-linkedincollaborativearticles-activity-7205922515448135680-ak1D?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop

6. Edi Oapsie Knows Jim O'Flanagan

Music by: Dr. Dre, "Ring Ding Dong." 1995.

Edi Oapsie Knows Jim O'Flanagan

https://vimeo.com/889945184?share=copy

• Summary: The video "Edi Oapsie Knows Jim O'Flanagan" is a dynamic visual narrative set to Dr. Dre's "Ring Ding Dong," exploring the connection between Edi Oapsie and Jim O'Flanagan.
• Music: Dr. Dre, "Ring Ding Dong." 1995.
• GenAI Prompt: "Create dynamic and engaging images depicting a lively interaction between two individuals, Edi Oapsie and Jim O'Flanagan, set against an urban backdrop with elements inspired by 90s hip-hop culture."

7. Batman is Partyman

Music by: Prince, "Partyman." 1989.

From soundtrack to the original Michael Keaton Batman movie.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/963425800?share=copy

• Summary: The video shows a scene showing my love for Batman, and particularly Michael Keaton's Batman. I love Christian Bale, but the OG is the OG.
• Music: Prince, "Partyman." 1989.
• GenAI Prompt: "Please create some images that explore Batman as Partyman, and please don't forget Prince, who is the funkiest guitar player of all time."

8. The Eclipse Keeps Rolling Along

Music by: Johnny Cash, "Folsom Prison Blues." 1957.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/957321027/8e48ce7fba?share=copy

• Summary: The video was used to promote our coverage of the eclipse on April 8, 2024. We experience a totality here in Northeast Ohio.
• Music: Prince, "Partyman." 1989.
• GenAI Prompt: "I am writing a newsletter article that talks about the Great North American Eclipse of 2024. Can you make some images for it? Thanks."

Deck 36, Issue No. 25, on the eclipse:

Link Reference: https://www.dhirubhai.net/pulse/d36-25-great-north-american-eclipse-2024-james-o-flanagan-txmwc/?trackingId=HehIgw7pTK6LcNvb5hfWmg%3D%3D

9. Peter Parker Loves Mary Jane Watson

Music by: Macy Gray, "Nutmeg Phantasy." 2001.

Peter Parker Loves Mary Jane Watson.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/963424525?share=copy

• Summary: I really like the Tobey MacGuire Spiderman the best, and this is meant to depict him and Kirsten Dunst's Mary Jane Watson.
• Music: Prince, "Partyman." 1989.
• GenAI Prompt: "Please create some images for: Mary Jane Watson Loves Peter Parker. Thanks Edi."

10. Buffy, Buffy, Buffy; Dog, Dog Dog Part III

Music by: Cliff Friend & Dave Franklin, "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down." 1937.

Otherwise known as the Looney Tunes theme song.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/963459031?share=copy

• Summary: RIP Buffy Louise O'Flanagan
• Music: Cliff Friend & Dave Franklin, "The Merry-Go-Round Broke Down." 1937.
• GenAI Prompt: "Please create some images of my dog Buffy, based on this image, that explores her zaney personality. Thanks Edi."

11. A LinkedIn Award Tour

Music by: A Tribe Called Quest, "Award Tour." 1993.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/952738524?share=copy

• Summary: The video helped support another Deck 36 newsletter article about my effort to earn LinkedIn Community Top Voice badges.
• Music: A Tribe Called Quest, "Award Tour." 1993.
• GenAI Prompt: "Please create some images that are going to help me write a newsletter article about 'The Great Yellow Badge Heist of '23' which is an account of me earning LinkedIn Community Top Voice badges."

12. Jim's Game of Thrones Intro

Music by: Ramin Djawadi, "Game of Thrones Main Title Theme." 2011.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/963457042?share=copy

• Summary: ASOIAF/Game of Thrones #Awesome. Full stop.
• Music: Ramin Djawadi, "Game of Thrones Main Title Theme." 2011.
• GenAI Prompt: "Please create some images that Game of Thrones Season 1, which is the greatest season of television of all time. Thanks buddy."

AI Tools Used

In creating these AI art videos, I relied on three primary tools, each contributing a unique capability to the process. Here's an overview of these tools and their current status in the industry:

• Davinci: For video editing and post-production, I used Davinci, a powerful and versatile video editing software. Davinci is known for its comprehensive suite of editing tools, including color correction, visual effects, and audio post-production. As of now, Davinci continues to be a leading choice among professional video editors and filmmakers due to its robust features and regular updates that keep it at the cutting edge of video editing technology.

• AI ARTA: aiarta was my go-to tool for generating AI art images. This platform allows for the creation of stunning and unique visuals through advanced AI algorithms. aiarta has been gaining popularity for its ease of use and the quality of its outputs, making it a favorite among digital artists and creators looking to integrate AI into their workflows. Currently, aiarta is expanding its features to include more customization options and improved AI models, further enhancing its capabilities and appeal.

• DALL-E: To create high-quality, AI-generated visuals, I utilized DALL-E, an AI image generator developed by OpenAI. DALL-E is renowned for its ability to generate highly detailed and imaginative images from textual descriptions. It has revolutionized the field of AI art with its creative potential and user-friendly interface. Presently, DALL-E remains at the forefront of AI image generation, continually being refined and updated to produce even more sophisticated and diverse visuals.

These tools collectively enabled me to produce the videos featured in this newsletter, each bringing their strengths to the table and pushing the boundaries of what can be achieved with AI in the realm of digital art and video production.

About Apple's AI Announcement

The number of independent AI companies is dwindling rapidly, highlighted by Apple's recent announcement. According TechCrunch , Apple has decided to integrate OpenAI's technology into its ecosystem, effectively capitulating to the dominant AI platforms. They announced this development in the past few weeks (June 2024).

By aligning with OpenAI, Apple has adopted the same technology used by Microsoft and OpenAI. This consolidation stifles innovation and reduces competition, which is detrimental to the industry. It's alarming that these tech giants are now using the same AI technology, limiting diversity in AI development and application.

Now, I am making animated shorts with AI-generated images. While it might be a humble version compared to professional studios like Sora, it's fun and effective nonetheless.

Enjoy exploring the world of AI art with me!

Conclusion

AI art and video editing have opened up a new world of creative possibilities, allowing artists to produce stunning visuals and engaging content with unprecedented ease. From exploring nostalgic themes to celebrating scientific achievements, AI tools like Davinci Resolve, aiarta, and DALL-E (ChatGPT) have played a crucial role in transforming ideas into captivating videos.

As the AI landscape continues to evolve, we can expect even more innovative applications and collaborations. Stay tuned to Deck 36 for more updates and exciting developments in the world of AI art. Thank you for joining us on this creative journey!

Errata

This is the home of leftover stuff that couldn't find a place in the rest of the article.

Stow Mortgage AI Welcome

Discover the innovative approach of Stow Mortgage in our latest AI-driven video. This video highlights how we've revolutionized the mortgage industry with cutting-edge technology, making the process more efficient and customer-friendly. Join us as we explore the future of mortgage solutions and see how Stow Mortgage is leading the way. Watch it now on Vimeo!

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/914148142?share=copy

Link Reference: https://stow.mortgage/get-started

Scoping The Area Near Peninsula Park

Check out our latest video on Vimeo, where we highlight our exciting new naming applications for local landmarks, which are now open for public comment. Join us in celebrating and preserving our area's natural beauty. Conservation is awesome!

Music by: Creedence Clearwater Revival, "Have You Ever Seen The Rain." 1971.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/954344764?share=copy

You can find out more about Peninsula Park here:

Link Reference: https://oapsie.com/peninsula-park

My Happy Birthday To Eli Song, Performed by Edi Oapsie

In this unique AI-generated video, I used the Memoji feature to animate myself singing "Happy Birthday" to my son. This project was a special one for me, and I even got an iPhone for the first time just to make it happen. Enjoy this fun and personal celebration on Vimeo!

Music by: Jim O'Flanagan, "Happy Birthday to Eli." 2023.

Video Reference: https://vimeo.com/963481548?share=copy

#AIArtNewsletterArticle

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____________________________________________________________________________________

??The Galaxy of Edi??

https://oapsie.com

https://eastrimtrail.com

https://stow.mortgage

https://www.galaxyofedi.com

https://www.youtube.com/@galaxyofedi1979