In the ever-evolving world of AI and art, where the line between innovation and overkill is as fine as a brushstroke, creators are constantly challenged with decisions about their work. It's true, experimentation and embracing new techniques are the lifeblood of creativity. But sometimes, the most impactful art is that which remains untouched by the allure of endless transformation. This holds especially true in the realm of still images versus motion art.
Full transparency.
This comes from a personal perspective because I have for years been a motion artist through my lifelong love of photography and the moving image. I'll delve deeper into that another time, but suffice to say I feel strongly about this. My own work is designed from the outset as motion images and motion is captured through the lens, in-camera. However, the video below is one of the few where I applied a ripple effect on the water to emphasise the stillness of the birds in the sky.
The Intriguing Intersection of AI and Art
I'm a big fan of innovative tools and technology. Over the last 10 years we've seen a plethora of new apps and plugins that will animate still images. When I first started specializing in Cinemagraphs I took a very hard line that the format should only refer to lens based motion art. But despite a tight-knit group of Cinemagraph creators trying to educate that point, it was a losing battle. Soon the trend took off and Instagram was full of people animating still photos with free apps and posting them as Cinemagraphs.
AI is now bringing the same surge of animated still images onto social media again. While it's truly incredible what can be done with AI in video creation, it's still early and most of what I see is nothing more than interesting experiments, all with the same morphing of details. That will change, and it won't be long before we can't tell the difference between lens-based capture and AI-generated video.
The more I see this, the more I fall back in love with still images, regardless of whether they are AI generated or not. (But yes, the magic of light captured on film or sensors... still captures my heart.)
The Unspoken Charm of Still Images
There's a unique strength in still images. A single frame can capture a moment, tell a story, or evoke emotions without the need for motion or progression. The magic lies in its ability to let the viewer's imagination roam free, filling in the gaps, creating their own narratives. The same can be said of the written word. Sometimes it's what you don't reveal that raises the tension. This power of suggestion is often lost when an image is set into motion. As an artist, recognizing when to harness this power is crucial.
The Art of Restraint in a Digital Age
In the digital age, where tools to animate and modify are at our fingertips, the temptation to constantly add 'more' can be overwhelming. Yet, the skill of restraint – knowing when to stop, when to let a piece be, is what sets apart great artists. It's not just about what you add to a piece, but also about what you choose to leave out. This principle of 'less is more' can elevate a good piece of art to a great one.
The Subtle Mastery of Leaving Things Unsaid
What an artist chooses to present as their final work is a testament to their maturity and understanding of their craft. Overworked pieces can often lose their essence, becoming cluttered and less impactful. Knowing when a piece is complete, when it has said all it needs to say, is an underrated skill. This discernment is what differentiates a seasoned artist from an enthusiastic novice.
Balancing Innovation with Artistic Integrity
While it's exciting to push boundaries and explore new possibilities, true artistry often lies in the subtle art of knowing when to draw the line. It's a delicate balance – one that requires a deep understanding of both the medium and the message. As artists continue to navigate the complex landscape of creativity, this balance of innovation and restraint will remain a guiding principle, ensuring that the essence of art, in its purest form, is preserved and celebrated.
Remember, great art isn't just about what you add; it's also about what you choose not to change. Embrace the power of stillness and let your art speak volumes in its tranquil form.
