In a twist on digital art, Brooklyn-based photographer Charlie Engman ventures into the uncanny terrain of AI-generated imagery. His latest book, “Cursed,” delves into the peculiarities of artificial intelligence (AI) in depicting human bodies, bringing forth images that feel rooted in reality yet subtly distort anatomy and gestures.
As the realm of generative AI imagery expanded last year, it became notorious for its peculiar results, such as images with excessive fingers or teeth. These unusual features indicated the AI’s struggle to accurately depict the human form. Engman, however, embraced this distortion in his work, crafting eerie images that challenge perceptions of normality. Using the Midjourney program, he creates visuals where limbs merge, faces transform into masks, and human and animal forms blur into one another.
In “Cursed,” Engman presents a juxtaposition of reality and fantasy. One image features a man donning a suit with swan wings protruding from his shoulders, while another shows a woman confronted by a sculptural bust resembling her. These depictions provoke a sense of discomfort, prompting viewers to confront their ideas of physical beauty and deformity.
Engman’s use of AI extends beyond mere imagery; it’s a tool for broader exploration of societal concepts regarding the body. Through unconventional representations, he poses questions about what is considered a normative body and challenges viewers to reassess their preconceptions.
The incorporation of familiar animal figures, such as swans and horses, within his artwork suggests symbolic meanings that transcend human figures alone. Engman is fascinated with how Midjourney renders these animals, seeing them as bridges between human and non-human worlds with an inherent poetic connection.
The rapid advancements in AI technology present a unique backdrop for “Cursed.” Engman found himself racing against time as updates to AI software outpaced his book’s production. The evolving nature of the technology shifted the aesthetic from his initial creations to the final product, rendering some older features obsolete.
Despite these challenges, Engman’s interest lies in separating the technology from the content itself. He believes that the true value of his work lies outside the technological medium, focusing on timeless artistic expression rather than transient digital trends.
Charlie Engman’s “Cursed” stands as a testament to the evolving dialogue between technology and art, asking poignant questions about human identity and perception. His work invites contemplation on the marriage of human creativity and artificial ingenuity, fostering a deeper understanding of both.
