#2: From Monet to Machines: The Digital Creative Process in Art
04
Feb 2025

The art world has evolved over the centuries—from the classic brushstrokes of great masters like Claude Monet to the innovative techniques of modern art. Recently, a new player has entered the creative process: artificial intelligence (AI). The transition from traditional art forms to digital media has led to a true revolution in the way art is created today. But how exactly is art created by machines created?

From brushstroke to digital creation, from classic Monet to algorithm – this blog post sheds light on the fascinating process behind AI-generated art.

1. THE CREATIVE ORIGIN: HUMAN VISION AND TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION

The first step in the creation process of a work of art, whether traditional or digital, is the idea. In the world of classical painting, it was the artist who picked up the brush to capture their vision on paper. In the digital age, especially with AI-generated art, this process is changing. The vision initially remains the artist's creative impulse, but the execution is determined by digital technology and AI algorithms.

In the case of AI-generated art, human input remains crucial. The artist provides the basic instructions and guidelines—be it through a textual description ("An Impressionist sunset over a lake") or a style, such as the influence of Monet or Van Gogh. The artificial intelligence uses these guidelines to generate the artwork, but it does so in a way that allows the artist to interact with the technology and guide the creation in the desired direction.

2. AI TRAINING: FROM PIXEL TO BRUSH STROKE

The actual creative process behind AI-generated art begins with training the AI. To create a digital work of art, the AI must first be fed a vast amount of imagery. This can include everything from classical paintings to contemporary photographs to modern digitally designed works.

The training works through machine learning: An algorithm is "fed" millions of image data sets to recognize patterns, colors, shapes, and structures. One of the best-known methods is so-called "deep learning," in which the AI uses neural networks to develop increasingly precise skills to emulate different artistic styles and techniques.

The AI can then incorporate the learned styles—be it the brushstrokes of Monet or the vibrant colors of Van Gogh—into its own creations. This ability to recognize and mimic traditional artistic elements allows the AI to create works of art that resemble masterpieces of the past in style and execution, while simultaneously opening up a new dimension of creative possibilities.

3. THE CREATIVE INPUT: COLLABORATION BETWEEN HUMAN AND MACHINE

While AI has tremendous capacity for processing data and mimicking styles, the artist's creative input remains indispensable. Humans provide the impetus and set the basic creative parameters, which the AI then translates into its digital execution.

AI is not a standalone "artist," but rather a tool that augments the human creative process. The artist can enter into a dialogue with the AI: providing input, adjusting parameters, testing variations, and influencing the direction of the artwork. The technology enables the artist to transcend their own traditional boundaries and create innovative art that is a symbiosis of human intuition and technological progress.

4. THE CREATION OF THE ARTWORK: THE DIGITAL BRUSHSTROKES

A key difference between traditional and digital art lies in the technique. The traditional artist uses physical tools—brushes, paints, and canvases—to realize their vision. The digital artist, however, works with digital tools and software powered by AI. This is where the "digital brushstroke" comes into play.

AI uses pixels instead of pigments, algorithms instead of brushstrokes, to realize the artist's vision. AI can apply a variety of techniques—from photorealistic renderings to abstract artworks that delve deep into the realm of imagination. The execution is often faster and less constrained than in traditional painting, yet still precise and detailed.

The speed of AI and the ability to create countless variations of a work of art open up new possibilities. Digital brushstrokes can be adjusted and modified in real time until the artwork achieves the desired form and aesthetic.

5. THE INFLUENCE OF AI ON THE ART WORLD: DEMOCRATIZING CREATIVITY

Another remarkable aspect of AI-generated art is the democratization of creativity. Previously, artists relied on specific skills and technical knowledge to create a work of art. With AI, however, anyone, regardless of their artistic ability, can create impressive works of art by providing the right instructions.

This could change the art world in several ways. On the one hand, it opens up opportunities for new talents and amateur artists to realize their creative ideas without having to rely on traditional techniques or expensive equipment. On the other hand, it raises the question of the authenticity of art. Is a work of art created by a machine still "real" art? This question will certainly continue to shape debates in the art world .

Bring your digital art into reality!

Now that you've learned more about the fascinating possibilities of digital AI art, it's time to experience your favorite artwork in physical form. Explore our various printing options —whether on acrylic glass, photo paper, metal, etc.—and choose the perfect option to make your artwork shine.

Browse our product gallery , find the artwork that appeals to you most, and bring it to life in a high-quality print.

Do you still have questions? In our FAQ section, you'll find frequently asked questions and answers about AI art.

Discover, select and enjoy your art in the perfect form!


Conclusion 

The connection between traditional art and artificial intelligence is a fascinating transition from classical techniques to digital innovations. From "pixel to brushstroke," AI is transforming the way we create and experience art. It expands the creative possibilities available to artists and creates new forms of expression that inspire and challenge us.

In a world dominated by technology, AI is increasingly becoming an integral part of the creative process. Humans remain the driving force behind the vision, but AI is becoming a valuable partner in art production. Just as Monet brought the brush to painting, AI is bringing the algorithm to art—and this revolution is just the beginning.