Originally aired on November 1, 2023

In this episode of the Edge of AI podcast, host Ron Levy interviews Galen Oaks, the Creative Director at Future Factory and an expert in AI art. Galen shares his journey as an artist and his experience integrating AI into his artistic practice. He discusses the impact of growing up in a rural area surrounded by nature and his time spent in Bali, which influenced his vibrant and creative style. Galen also dives into his use of Midjourney, an AI art platform, to create a cohesive collection of AI-generated avatars for Future Factory. He provides valuable insights and tips on using AI as a tool for artistic expression and emphasizes the need to approach AI with intention and positivity. Galen concludes by highlighting the exciting possibilities that AI brings and encourages listeners to focus on the good that can be created with this powerful technology.

Galen’s background as an artist and his journey into AI art

• Growing up in a rural area and being influenced by nature and artistic parents
• Discovering AI art and its potential through platforms like Midjourney
• Using photography and graphic design skills as a foundation for AI art

Creating a cohesive collection of AI-generated avatars for Future Factory

• Working with Paul Heming, the brainchild behind Future Factory, to develop the concept
• Defining the framing and visual style of the avatars using prompts like 50 millimeters and octane render
• Introducing minimal backgrounds to maintain focus on the avatars

Balancing the use of AI as a tool for artistic expression

• Embracing AI as a means to quickly and radically express ideas and creativity
• Leveraging AI tools like Midjourney to expedite the creation process and iterate on designs
• Using AI to explore different artistic styles, from fashion designs to home interiors

Overcoming fears and embracing the positive potential of AI

• Viewing AI as an opportunity for accelerated creation and positive impact
• Focusing on intention and harnessing AI to create a better world
• Highlighting the importance of positive input and training AI with the best of humanity

Resources and tools for AI artists and enthusiasts

• Midjourney: an AI art platform that generates custom artwork based on user prompts
• AI Tools: a website that categorizes different AI tools and resources
• Twitter and Instagram: platforms to follow AI-related accounts and stay updated on the latest trends and developments

Future Factory and the convergence of AI, art, and community

• Future Factory’s mission to create an immersive and communal experience that bridges technology, art, and wellness
• Galen’s role as Creative Director, overseeing the development of AI-generated avatars and integrating web 3 and AI into the Future Factory ecosystem
• The lifetime membership offered by Future Factory, providing unparalleled access to a variety of benefits and experiences

Chapters:

0:00:00 – Introduction: Who is Galen Oakes and what is the Future Factory?

0:18:22 – Midjourney 101: Getting Started in Generative AI

0:33:58 – Midjourney Tips & Tricks from an Expert with 50,000 hours in!

0:45:35 – AI Wants to Know Galen Oakes: Find Out How to Get 15-mins With Galen!

0:51:11 – Galen’s AI Leaders & Influencers: Refik Anadol, NVIDIA, Todd Terrazas & more!

0:56:10 – Galen’s AI Resource List: AI Won’t Replace You, People Using AI Will!

1:01:46 – Galen’s AI Tips: Creative Ways to Use Chat GPT