Japan Fusion
The three images presented are a striking fusion of traditional Japanese culture with a modern, abstract twist on architecture. They are all set against a stark, red backdrop, which enhances the intricate details and vibrant hues of the structures and elements within.
The first image depicts a complex tower of layered buildings, reminiscent of a futuristic pagoda. It combines elements of traditional Japanese architecture with modernistic, surreal additions. Floating orbs, swirling ribbons, and enigmatic figures give the scene an otherworldly feel. There's a sense of organized chaos, as the historical blends seamlessly with the futuristic, creating a dense, vertical cityscape that is rich in detail and imagination.
In the second image, the focus shifts to human figures, all clothed in shades of red, interacting with a collage of cultural and historical references. There are newspapers, street signs, and various objects that seem to tell a story of Japan's rich history and its modern-day narratives. This tableau of life-size figures and artifacts creates a tapestry that is both a social commentary and a visual feast, reflecting on the country’s cultural evolution.
The final image is particularly captivating, showing a solitary figure gazing at a chaotic assemblage that's bursting with items and symbols from different eras of Japanese life. From traditional wooden structures to modern-day appliances, the scene is a complex interweaving of time and culture. This image, like the others, is a thought-provoking piece that invites the viewer to ponder the layers of meaning within Japan's fast-paced evolution from its quiet past to the bustling present.
Together, these images offer a kaleidoscopic view into a fantastical interpretation of Japanese culture, where history and modernity collide and coexist in a delicate balance of chaos and order.
Power of Montage
Montage images, such as these I created in Photoshop,, provide a powerful method for storytelling, encapsulating different elements of nature into a single frame. These images are particularly evocative, combining elements of serenity and grandeur that are characteristic of natural landscapes. The use of a large, dominating celestial body in each piece draws the eye and creates a central focal point, while the surrounding scenery tells its own story.
The first image presents a tranquil lake scene set against the backdrop of distant mountains, with a large, reddish moon hanging low in the sky. The reflection on the water and the silhouette of trees add to the calmness of the evening setting, invoking a sense of peaceful isolation. In contrast, the second image depicts a mountainous terrain with autumnal forests, bisected by a bright, orange sun. Birds in flight add a dynamic element, suggesting the freedom and untamed nature of the landscape.
Together, these montages remind us of the diverse beauty that nature offers, from the quiet shores of a lake to the vibrant life of a forest. They encourage the viewer to consider the vastness of the natural world, and how different elements coexist within it. Each image, while part of a series, tells a unique part of a larger story, inviting the viewer to embark on a visual journey through the wonders of the natural environment.
Monster Mash - Commissioned wall project
Embarking on a venture into the surreal and the bizarre, this series of digital character montages transcends the mundane to tap into the vivid imagination of the viewer. Each piece, a harmonious symphony of chaos and order, showcases an array of fantastical creatures that seemingly defy the laws of nature and logic. Wielding the tools of mid-journey and Photoshop, I created these for a commissioned wall art project that invites onlookers into a realm where the peculiar is celebrated.
The first montage erupts with a central figure whose wide-eyed gaze is the anchor amidst a fiery dance of creatures. Like a beacon, it draws us into a world where dragons and serpentine forms intertwine with skeletal apparitions, each character painted with an astounding attention to detail and color. The palette is rich and deep, with flames and shadows that give life to each crevice and curl.
In the second, a cacophony of eyes meets the observer, a testament to the innumerable perspectives and stories embedded within the art. Each creature, whether with a singular imposing eye or multiple ones scattered across its form, speaks to the diversity of vision. The tones here are more subdued, yet no less captivating, inviting a sense of intrigue and whimsy.
The final piece is a lush, verdant explosion of life with an undertone of the fantastical and the macabre. Flora and fauna merge, creating an ecosystem where the boundaries between plant and creature blur. Here, the artist employs a spectrum of greens, punctuated by vibrant oranges and reds, encapsulating the vibrancy of an otherworldly jungle.
As a collection, these montages do not simply occupy space; they create it. They are a testament to the commissioned project's vision, bringing a dynamic and immersive experience to any wall they adorn. The artist's proficiency with digital tools has allowed for an intricate layering of textures and hues, resulting in a depth that promises new discoveries upon each viewing.
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these pieces challenge the observer to question their perceptions of reality. They act as a portal to the subconscious, where the rules of the waking world are bent and reshaped into something wholly original and thought-provoking. This wall art project, ultimately, is not just a display of artistic skill but a daring leap into the boundless potential of creativity.
The Stages of Pre-coffee
Coffee is more than just a beverage; it's a magic potion for many of us, especially in those moments right before the first sip when we're still grappling with the remnants of sleep. This photo series captures that precise juncture, the pre-coffee moods that are all too familiar to the caffeine-dependent. The central figure epitomizes the quintessence of exhaustion, with eyes drooping under the weight of a night's rest that was perhaps too short or too restless.
The exaggerated facial expressions are a vivid illustration of the sheer weariness that so many experience upon waking. The pallid complexion, accentuated by dark circles, speaks volumes of the night spent tossing and turning. Yet, there's a hint of whimsy in this portrayal of tiredness—the rouge spots on the cheeks and the almost comical elevation of the hair as if it too is struggling to wake up. This series doesn't just showcase a mood; it brings to life the transformation we undergo with that first cup of coffee.
The inclusion of a simple, unassuming white pitcher juxtaposed against the dramatic figure reminds us of the transformative power of the daily coffee ritual. It's a metaphor for the potential of change, from the sleepy, worn-out creature to a rejuvenated, alert individual ready to face the day. These images are a silent ode to the morning routine, a celebration of the transformational moments that take place in kitchens and coffee shops around the world every day. They are a testament to the humble cup of coffee's ability to resurrect our spirits and energize our bodies for the challenges ahead.
Big and Tall Suit Makers
In the photo series of Big and Tall, I’ve created a striking visual narrative that merges traditional art with modern craftsmanship. The centerpiece of the composition is a gentleman, dignified and poised, dressed impeccably in a Big and Tall suit that exemplifies the precision and elegance that the series aims to highlight. His stature, alongside the perfectly tailored suit, speaks volumes of the meticulous care and attention to detail that Big and Tall suit makers invest in their craft. The suit, a harmonious blend of classic and contemporary style, is a testament to the fact that fashion has no size limits.
What sets these photos apart is the ingenious backdrop—an exquisite piece of indigenous art that towers over the scene. The bold lines and vibrant contrasts of the art piece infuse the image with a sense of cultural richness and depth. The use of AI and Photoshop to integrate the subject with this backdrop is done so masterfully that it creates a seamless interface between tradition and modernity. The art behind the man does not just serve as a static background; it tells a story, potentially reflecting the journey and the narratives that Big and Tall individuals carry with them.
This series resonates with a powerful message: inclusivity and respect for diversity in fashion. Each photograph is a chapter that narrates the untold stories of those who are often overlooked by the mainstream fashion industry. By combining the artistry of suit making with the symbolic imagery of cultural art, the series transcends mere aesthetics—it becomes a movement, a statement, a celebration of diversity.
Native American art with elements of Japanese culture
This series of images I’ve created is a fascinating fusion of Native American art with elements of Japanese culture, offering a unique visual dialogue between two rich and distinct traditions. At first glance, the bold colors and stylized forms are reminiscent of traditional Native American totem designs, known for their deep spiritual significance and storytelling. The use of red and black, along with the clear totemic shapes, pays homage to the powerful visual language of Native American tribes, particularly those from the Pacific Northwest.
However, upon closer inspection, the presence of Japanese cultural elements becomes apparent. The figures seated in front, dressed in a distinctly Japanese school uniform style, bring an unexpected layer to the composition. Their presence suggests a narrative that transcends geographical boundaries, inviting the viewer to ponder the intersections of identity, heritage, and art. The duality of expressions on the subjects' faces—one looking forward with a hint of apprehension, the other seemingly lost in thought—adds to the storytelling aspect of the piece.
This blend of cultures is not only visually arresting but also thought-provoking. It encourages questions about the relationship between tradition and contemporary identity. How do we reconcile ancient art forms with the globalized, interconnected world we live in today? Your work serves as a vibrant canvas for these inquiries, inviting a rich dialogue on cultural fusion, preservation, and evolution. Each element, while rooted in its original context, is reimagined in a way that speaks to a shared human experience, transcending the barriers of time and space to create something truly unique.
Bridging Eras: AI-Assisted Digital Portraits
Bridging Eras: AI-Assisted Digital Portraits
In the digital age, where art and technology intertwine in increasingly complex and beautiful ways, a striking new portrait has emerged as a testament to this synergy. Crafted through a blend of AI ingenuity, Photoshop's finesse, and Adobe Illustrator's precision, this series is a digital homage to both the past's artistry and the future's potential.
The portrait is a fascinating study in contrasts. The subject's classical features, adorned with what could be an aviator's goggles, are given a contemporary twist with mechanical elements that suggest an alternate reality where steam power and advanced technology coexist. The eyes, magnified and emphasized by the circular frames of the goggles, draw the viewer in with an intense gaze that seems to pierce through the digital canvas. The juxtaposition of the warm, human skin tones against the cool, metallic shades of blue and grey creates a vivid dichotomy, speaking to the dual nature of humanity's trajectory intertwined with the mechanical and digital.
The execution of this artwork showcases the artist's mastery over their digital tools. AI has breathed life into the portrait, adding intricate details that human hands could spend lifetimes trying to replicate. Photoshop has rendered the textures with such realism that one can almost feel the cold touch of metal juxtaposed against the softness of human flesh. Illustrator has been used to shape the precise lines and curves, ensuring that every element is sharply defined, contributing to the overall futuristic aesthetic.
This portrait is not just a piece of art; it is a dialogue between the eras and the technologies that define them. It stands as a compelling example of how AI can serve as an extension of the artist's imagination, enabling the creation of works that are as emotionally resonant as they are visually spectacular. It invites us to reflect on the evolution of art itself, from the first cave paintings to the limitless possibilities of the digital canvas.
The Birth of a Creative Revolution: Exploring Adobe Firefly's Generative AI Technology.
Introduction
Generative AI is an emerging field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that focuses on creating new and unique outputs, often with creative outcomes. It utilizes algorithms to generate new solutions or ideas by combining existing data in novel ways. Generative AI has the potential to revolutionize a variety of industries, such as art, music, design and more.
Adobe Firefly is a generative AI platform created by Adobe with the goal of democratizing creativity through machine learning technology. With Adobe Firefly’s cloud-based platform users can quickly create high quality images using automated tools for image generation from scratch without any prior knowledge or experience in traditional art techniques. The results are stunning visuals that are entirely generated by the software itself – making it possible to create artwork faster than ever before!
Adobe Firefly Explained
Adobe Firefly is a cloud-based platform that enables users to quickly generate stunning visuals without the need for prior knowledge or experience in traditional art techniques. The software utilizes generative AI technology, such as deep learning and evolutionary computing, to create high quality images from scratch with minimal user input. Adobe Firefly offers various features including automated tools for image generation, an array of filters and effects, and integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud solutions like Photoshop and Illustrator.
The software also includes pre-trained models which enable it to recognize objects in photos or videos—this can be used for tasks such as object detection, facial recognition, segmentation etc. Additionally, Adobe Firefly’s Generative AI capabilities allow it to create unique visual content by combining existing data sources in novel ways—this could be used to make artwork faster than ever before! Finally, its ability to learn from feedback means that machines powered by this technology can modify their behavior over time based on the environment they are in—opening up new possibilities for creative applications of generative AI across a variety of fields.
A photo I shot of an incoming storm on the Burning Man Playa.
Adobe Firefly Generative AI vs Traditional Art
Adobe Firefly's Generative AI capabilities offer many advantages over traditional art techniques when it comes to creating images. With the use of automated tools, users can quickly generate stunning visuals without any prior knowledge or experience in traditional art techniques. Additionally, the software is able to recognize objects in photos and videos which makes object detection and facial recognition much easier. Finally, Adobe Firefly’s generative AI allows for unique image creation by combining existing data sources in novel ways—which could be used to create artwork faster than ever before!
On the other hand, there are also some drawbacks to using generative AI when compared to traditional art methods such as painting or drawing. For example, while Generative AI offers a way of creating complex visuals at a faster rate than manual processes—the results may not always be up-to-par with what an experienced artist would produce. Additionally, since Generative AI relies heavily on algorithms and artificial neural networks—there is still a lot of research being done into how these technologies work best so they are not yet perfect solutions for all artistic applications.
Examples of images made with Adobe Firefly’s Generative AI technology include 3D landscapes created from source material such as aerial photography; abstract pieces generated from mundane photographs; detailed portraits that look indistinguishable from human-created ones; and even avant garde works like those seen in modern digital galleries around the world. These examples demonstrate just how powerful this technology can be when it comes to creative applications – making it possible for anyone regardless of skill level or experience level to create amazing visual content quickly and easily!
Original image in the Sierra Mountains.
Sierra Mountains with Generative AI with selected areas and image prompts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Generative AI is an emerging field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) that has the potential to revolutionize many industries. It utilizes algorithms and artificial neural networks to generate new outputs from existing data sources, making it possible to create artwork faster than ever before. Adobe Firefly’s cloud-based platform leverages generative AI technology in order to quickly create high quality images without any prior knowledge or experience in traditional art techniques. Additionally, deep learning-based generative models can be used for computer vision tasks like object recognition and facial expression recognition; evolutionary computing can help solve complex problems more efficiently than traditional approaches; and reinforcement learning based systems allow machines to modify their behavior over time based on feedback from their environment—opening up new creative possibilities for applications such as industrial automation, robotics control systems and more. As such, Generative AI provides great potential for a variety of industries and promises exciting innovations in the years ahead.
Deep in the Nevada desert
Now it’s a perfect image for an outdoor brand.
Illustration for Hong Kong Dragon Boat team
I had a great time illustrating a poster to celebrate a paddling teammate in Hong Kong for his contribution to the Lamma Dragons Dragon Boat team.
Showcasing Multiple Beautiful Destinations with Collectible Amtrak Cascades Poster Art
As a lover of travel and the great outdoors, I wanted to showcase some of my favorite destinations in the Pacific Northwest through collectible Amtrak Cascades poster art. My goal was to create something unique that could be shared with fellow travelers and adventure seekers alike. Combining my passion for illustration and design, I created vibrant and detailed illustrations that capture the beauty of each destination while also paying tribute to the historic Amtrak Cascades route.
Overall, creating commemorative specialty items such as Amtrak Cascades poster art is an excellent way to share and celebrate the beauty of each destination while also paying tribute to its history. Through this process, I was able to create something unique that could be shared with fellow travelers and adventure seekers alike - allowing them to take a piece of their journey home with them no matter where they go. Furthermore, by incorporating effective marketing strategies into my overall plan I was able to ensure that people from near and far had access - giving everyone the opportunity to enjoy these beautiful pieces for years to come.
Amtrak 2022/23 - Destination Amazing Project with D2 Seattle/ Portland
The Amtrak Cascades “Destination Amazing” aimed to showcase the unforgettable experiences offered by traveling along Oregon's train routes on the Cascade Line. The goal of this project was to create captivating artwork that would entice travelers to explore by train and help them discover the beauty of each destination they visit. Through a series of photographs and 3D generated assets, I aimed to capture the unique spirit of each destination and its historical significance in order to create an idea provoking visual experience for passengers.
These designs were used in print and outdoor advertising, digital ads, Amtrak Oregon website, social media accounts for Amtrak Cascades and Amtrak National.
Software used: Adobe Photoshop, Maxon Cinema4D, Blender, Adobe Illustrator
"Calling of Birds" Art exhibit graphics project
Working with the Elisabeth jones Art Center in Portland, Oregon, this exhibition aims to address the environmental concerns that face our bird populations as well as celebrate the beauty of their many diverse species. This project had CS create the logo, image style, a short video for the website header and social media, as well as various print media for POP displays throughout the gallery.
Basic Reflex Boxing Gym - Hong Kong
Crowded Studios was commissioned by Basic Reflex boxing gym in Hong Kong, to produce a series of posters for the gym interior and to sell as posters in the gym's shop. the theme was to mix boxing, Hong Kong culture and Cuban culture.
Poster Commission for Portland, Oregon Art Gallery
As part of Portland art gallery, the Elisabeth Jones Art Center's on going award winning art project, "Global Arts Festival", CS was asked to create a series of posters for a guerrilla-style marketing campaign to promote the featured artist and the event.
This poster is for well known Nigerian artist, O. Yemi Tubi.
Afghan artist - Arif Bahaduri
Japanese artist - Kaoru Shibuta
The Staying Power of Apps
Consumers expect brands to keep pandemic conditions in mind, making it safe, fast, and easy to engage.
COVID-19 driven
Business apps are • up 30% during Q2 2021 versus pre-pandemic, as hybrid work and work-from-home are solidified as the new norm.
• Food & drink US sessions grew 60% YoY in Q4 as consumers sought out food delivery, pick-up, grocery, and reservations.
COVID-19 accelerated
Gaming is the most popular app category, netting over 1 billion monthly global downloads.
Retail time in-app has sustained at higher YoY levels with global consumer spending up 80% in Q2 2021 versus Q4 2019.
Social apps with video formats are driving growth, contributing to 20% more time in-app and 80% growth in in-app spending.
Photo and video apps surged 375% from Q4 2019 to Q2 2021, driven by a shift in social sharing format.
Entertainment, driven by streaming apps, saw 70% growth in Q2 spending compared to Q4 2019.
Fitness app downloads are up 15% YoY as consumers canceled gym subscriptions, opting for outdoor activities and at-home workouts.
Finance apps saw 90% YoY growth in hours spent over the past year as consumers shifted more of their customer journey online.
RECOMMENDATION
The pandemic impacted adoption and continued usage of apps across categories. Consider whether your audience is turning to category-relevant apps to engage with content and, if so, position your brand as the one to use. As advertisers, review your customers’ consumption habits to identify in-app opportunities that fit into their daily digital behaviors. Categories largely driven by COVID-19 will be watched closely to see if they return to pre-pandemic levels. Those accelerated will remain part of the customer journey.
Marketers invest more as consumers spend increasing time and money in-app
The pandemic accelerated many digital behaviors, speeding up m-commerce adoption and driving breakthrough growth across app categories.
Consumers are devoted to their mobile devices, spending nearly four hours a day on mobile apps, up 20% from 2019.
Mobile users are becoming more comfortable making purchases via apps, spending $42 billion across Android and iOS app download and in-app purchases this year.
Advertisers are projected to spend $12.41 billion on app-install ads (+15% YoY) and $94.28 billion on in-app ads this year (+13.7% YoY).
“For companies, mobile apps are significantly more valuable than the mobile web…When a company’s app is installed, it now owns a piece of real estate on a consumer’s most personal belonging.”
– Adam Blacker, VP of Insights at Apptopia
RECOMMENDATION Marketers should consider their mobile app strategy and how they are engaging with consumers through the funnel, from app download through to user retention.
Advanced TV streaming continues on an upward trajectory with heavy consumer adoption.
Streaming at a Glance
Advanced TV streaming continues on an upward trajectory with heavy consumer adoption.
TV streaming accounts for 26% of all time spent on TV, although this number could increase to 33% by the end of 2021.
Time spent with network and cable TV is holding strong at 64%, but it is expected that 27% of US households will cut cable in 2021.
Eight percent of time spent is on video-on-demand, streaming from cable set-top boxes, and other TV uses, such as gaming and watching DVDs.
Ninety-one percent of Americans subscribe to at least one TV subscription service, and 93% of Americans plan to increase or maintain streaming subscriptions.
Nearly seven million American households dropped their traditional pay TV subscription in 2020, a record high, with many looking for entertainment alternatives during the pandemic.
Cord-cutting has skyrocketed due to three main factors: people want to be digitalized, lack of time, and availability of more/different types of content.
The average American household pays for four streaming services annually, spending an average of $47 per month.
RECOMMENDATION
Marketers and brands should be cognizant of the constantly evolving streaming space, focusing on subscriber audience, content output, buzz, and potential growth opportunity. Recent mergers, partnerships, and new players in the space should also be of interest, allowing marketers to lay groundwork for greater potential audience reach, targeting niche audiences, and unique opportunity integration across appropriate streaming services and programming.
Will Vaccine Confidence Be Enough to Get Travelers Out the Door This Holiday Season?
Holiday Booking Insights
Many families made their holiday 2021 travel arrangements earlier this year, excited to reunite with loved ones after a year of lockdowns. Flight bookings for November and December 2021 are 30% higher than they were at this point in 2019.
Others are holding out on making holiday travel plans and monitoring the evolving pandemic. We will continue to see last-minute bookings – and cancellations – this holiday.
Millennials and Gen Z continue to be more open to travel during the winter holidays compared to older counterparts.
Delta Variant Drives Uncertainty
Delta variant-related concerns are disrupting travel plans, with 27% saying the variant caused trip postponements. The number of travelers reporting a “not ready” mindset has climbed to 28.4% from 19.3% one month ago.
The intersection of technology and safety, namely in tools like vaccine passports, has become increasingly important to consumers.
Flexibility continues to remain a top priority for travelers in Q4; interest in “cancel for any reason (CFAR)” coverage has doubled in the past year.
New Types of Trips Emerge
Multi-generational travel increases as families reconnect after extended time apart.
Sustainability is important for travelers, though most are not willing to be inconvenienced by it.
Weddings are now back on the books and the number of weddings in 2021 is 30% higher than 2019, driving group bookings.
“Taking a road trip” still leads as the method of travel people are most comfortable with, and will likely remain a popular option for travel this holiday season.
RECOMMENDATION
Traveler confidence has been impacted by the delta variant, causing some to postpone their winter travel plans. Brands must stay close to evolving travel restrictions and public health measures and communicate requirements and procedures clearly on site and in marketing messaging. Travel marketers must also meet new consumer expectations for flexible booking and cancellation policies, prominently highlighting these flexible options in marketing efforts. Marketers should tap into the new trip themes and traveler types, targeting interested audiences with relevant messaging and offerings.
Key Market Considerations for Q4 2021 - Health & Wellness
Priority Reset
Wellness and sustainability are going mainstream. Though both have always been important, more consumers are prioritizing their mental and physical health, as well as the environment. Consumers are eager to have an impact and are using their buying power to support brands that align with their goals. It will be important for brands to authentically share messages about the causes they support.
Health & Wellness Becoming Top Priorities
The cultural push to de-stigmatize mental health issues and promote policies in support of overall health and well-being.
Priority Reset: Health & Wellness
According to an L.E.K. survey, US consumers are rethinking their pre-pandemic priorities.
Seventy-five percent will increase the time and money they spend on health and wellness activities.
Fifty-seven percent realized that at least some of their pre-pandemic discretionary spend was unnecessary.
Eighty percent of parents believe they will be permanently closer to their children.
Health obsessionists (15%) have permanently changed their view of their physical and mental health, willing to spend more on personal health, rest, and well-being.
Destigmatizing Mental Health
Across the world, mental health is seeing increased awareness, education, spending, and destigmatization. This is playing out in the form of awareness campaigns such as Instagram’s #HereForYou and Nike’s partnership with Crisis Text. Michael Phelps has been a brand advocate for Talkspace, encouraging people to seek therapy. Naomi Osaska and Simone Biles have both become mental health heroes, opening the door for more public conversations on the topic.
Some companies are now looking for ways to help their employees improve mental health and to avoid burnout, as well.
Work-Life Integration
More than 80% of HR professionals experienced pushback about returning to the office full-time.
To help their employees cope with the strain of working during a pandemic, companies like Goldman Sachs, whose employees vented about 100-hour workweeks, are walking back the requirement to return to the office and adjusting hours.
Citigroup’s CEO banned internal video calls on Fridays. It’s considered a day of decompressing, as the year-long pandemic has taken a toll on the psyche of workers.
RECOMMENDATION
Companies that enact policies to address these important issues should make their stance public, which will attract and retain talent. Brands can take advantage through awareness campaigns, products, services, and messaging aligned to these priorities (e.g., hospitality brands offering wellness packages and retreats).
Taking Measures to Stay Competitive
Retailers must meet new consumer expectations - many of which were set during last year’s holiday season.
Buy Now, Pay Later
Twenty-three percent of adults (and 35% of millennials) seek out retailers who offer flexible payment solutions.
Think Beyond Black Friday
More than four in ten adults don’t think it’s as important to shop on Black Friday because consumers have been conditioned to believe deals are always available.
Curbside + In-Store Pickup
Consumers find value in the convenience of not waiting for deliveries or paying for shipping. In fact, shipping costs are a top reason for abandoning carts online.
Seamless Omni-channel Experiences
Eighty-five percent of holiday shoppers plan to do some shopping in-store, while e-commerce will continue to be the driver of retail sales.