AI is a rapidly evolving and exciting art form that has captured the imagination of artists worldwide. As technology continues to advance, artists are experimenting with robotics and software to create new and innovative works that blend various artistic forms and express their unique perspectives and stories.
If you take a look at the tweet above, none of the images are real. They are generated by artificial intelligence to depict photo-realistic images based on text inputs.
Despite the enormous success that AI artists like Robbie Bharat, Pindar Van Arman, and Botto have had, the AI art space isn’t fully formed yet. In web3 specifically, it remains niche. The total volume of transactions in the NFT photography space has been less than 15,000 ETH, which accounts for less than 10% of the overall crypto art market. In turn, the crypto art market only represents 5% of the entire NFT art and collectibles market.
Braindrops, the biggest NFT AI platform, has recorded $26.9 million in volumes since its inception more than a year ago. However, sales figures alone fail to capture the true essence of the AI art movement, as artists are using the latest innovations in robotics and software to create breathtaking, mind-bending characters and worlds. Moreover, brands are leveraging AI art to design clothes and host fashion shows, while filmmakers are using it to conduct experiments. It is evident that we have barely scratched the surface of what AI art is capable of achieving.
Although NFT photography is gaining attention, it is still in its early stages. In the past two years, sales in this category have totaled $50 million, making up less than 2% of all NFT art and collectibles. Furthermore, fewer than 3,000 individuals have collected photographs, and the majority of collectors are likely unable to name more than 5 photographers. Despite this, the potential for growth in this space is significant, and we can expect to see more photographers exploring the possibilities of NFTs as a means of showcasing and monetizing their work.
Is AI-generated “post-photography” the future of NFT photography? No one knows. But the trend is gaining significant traction, and I remain curious about how the space unfolds.