In anticipation of Tribul's Inflection auction featuring @artemisandarts' first-ever plotter release, we sat down with the artist to discuss his creative process and the unprecedented involvement of @nf_suzanne as curator.
Alexia Wright: How would you describe your Inflection works and what did you aim to achieve with this series?
artemisandarts: I would describe Inflection as algorithmically generative acrylic works, mechanically painted using a plotter. Abstract portraits generated by a simple algorithm. It is a continuation of my work with abstract portraits, now carrying the automated nature of my process into physicals.
artemisandarts | Inflection #7 | 2024
AW: These works are composed of three layers. What is involved in each layer?
artemis: For each of the Inflection works, the first layer serves as the basis for the artwork. This is a generated first state where the drawing initially begins. Then a photographic snapshot is taken and this along with the drawn coordinates from the first layer is fed into the second layer. The second layer builds on top of what the first layer introduced, deriving its new coordinates from the first layer. Finally, the third layer combines the first and second layers, finalising the artwork with final stroke coordinates derived from the merging of the first two layers. This final layer will also be hashed and woven into the data of the final image file for each artwork using steganography.
artemisandarts | Inflection #4 | 2024
AW: Your use of primary colors in this series is striking. What inspired this choice?
artemis: I find myself enjoying working with contrasts in colours.
My aim in using these colors, in combination with a low count of strokes, is to convey depth from simplicity.
AW: This is your first-time creating works with a plotter. What was this experience like and what motivated you to want to create with a different medium?
artemis: Using a plotter is one way that allows me to carry my automated processes from digital into physical. Core to my process is often calculated automation using randomness, and by using a mechanical plotter I can continue to lean into this lack of direct intention as to how the strokes are imposed onto canvas. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with this physical aspect.
artemisandarts | WIP, Inflection Series | 2024
AW: Your algorithmic works resemble hand-painted pieces, despite being created with a machine. What leads you to want to create in this way?
artemis: I find myself stimulated and curious about borrowing randomness and spontaneity from the natural world, letting these influence an otherwise mechanically controlled process like algorithmic generation of visuals.
I enjoy the technical challenge of creating outputs with a natural and organic presence.
artemisandarts | WIP, Inflection Series | 2024
AW: What is the significance of the title Inflection in relation to the series?
artemis: Inflection as a title mainly refers to the relationship between the different layers, introducing a change of pace, and direction as it mixes in new random variables while actually plotting.
artemisandarts | Inflection #3 | 2024
AW: In what ways do you see the Inflection series contributing to your broader body of work?
artemis: I think the Inflection works naturally extend themselves from the work I have created up until now. It is a continuation of my exploration of abstract portraiture. These are my first physical plotter outputs, and I'm looking forward to using this tool more in the future.
AW: What was it like working with Suzanne (@nf_suzanne), a collector and friend, to curate the Inflection works for the upcoming auction?
artemis: I have been excited about the prospects of Suzanne curating the Inflection series given the respect I have for her thoughts on art and collecting. Working with her as curator has been a pleasure, and I have enjoyed having a friend alongside me in realising this project.
artemisandarts | Inflection #5 | 2024
AW: Suzanne commented on the balance between digital precision and artistic fluidity in your Inflection series. How would you characterize this blend?
artemis:
The blend is characterized by the uneven and non-uniform strokes, as well as the unpredictable blending and layering of paint on the paper, yet it is all drawn with machine precision and the compositions are produces by precise rules.
AW: You are known for forming meaningful relationships with collectors and others in the space behind the scenes. What drives your desire to cultivate these deeper connections?
artemis: It’s just about friendships. I enjoy talking with people with whom I share this space, and connecting through our mutual interest in art is a joy for me. Meeting people that find my work to be resonating with them is a great pleasure and honour.
AW: What led to your collaboration with Tribul?
artemis: I first got in touch with Tribul when you and I had an interview for the Art After Hours interview series.
After being introduced to you and the team and keeping in touch since then, conversations about a particular release emerged after I created my physical Payload works in 2023 (released in an exhibition with Vertu Fine Art). Both Tribul and I were curious about continuing to explore the physical aspects of my work and processes.
artemis is a multifaceted generative artist who seamlessly transitions between various creative roles, from algorithm developer and AI model implementer to model trainer and dataset curator. His exceptional versatility shines through in his two distinctive artistic styles. He forges bold, raw, and abstract creations, infusing them with a profound and emotionally charged essence; at the same time he navigates the complex interplay between humanity and technology. Within his works, one can discern a signature style characterized by vibrant colors, abstract figures, and a deep exploration of our relationship with technology.
Alexia Wright is the Head of Social Media and Marketing at Tribul, combining her passion for art with her expertise in content creation, community management, and stakeholder relations. Alexia holds a Master of Arts degree and has extensive leadership experience. She enjoys keeping her pulse on the latest art news and trends in web3.