01

What is your relationship to each other and how did you come about forming your studio together?

We have been working together for many years, primarily in editorial design. Our partnership began when Christian co-founded an agency in 2009, which Nastassja later joined. In 2021, we decided to establish our studio, SERIFA, to shift focus from client work towards doing more non-client, personal projects. Our collaboration has always been guided by a shared aesthetic, which has naturally evolved. 

Our background in editorial design, where we have created over 500 book covers, naturally led us to explore new creative tools. AI presented an exciting opportunity to experiment and develop in ways traditional methods couldn't offer. The unpredictability and chaos that AI brings into the creative process align with our interest in discovering new and unexpected results, which is why we've embraced it so thoroughly in our practice.

03

In your opinion, what separates AI from being used as a tool for creation vs AI becoming the creator itself? Is there a limit to the evolution of artistic tools before they potentially "take over" completely?

We see AI as a tool, much like a camera. The critical difference lies in the human intention behind its use. While AI can generate images, the artist decides what to focus on, what to refine, and what becomes art. Art has a lot to do with selection and curation. Art will always have a human element because human experience, intuition, and life perspective determine what is valuable or beautiful. AI can expand our creative possibilities but cannot replace the core of the human creative process.

04

What is your process of creating with Midjourney/other AI programs in general, and how much editing is done post-image generation?

Our process with AI involves significant post-processing. We often start with AI-generated images and then refine and enhance the results. This could include adding textures, adjusting colors, or introducing elements that align with our aesthetic. We embrace the unpredictability of AI-generated outputs, but the post-editing ensures the work aligns with our vision.

05

Do you personally have any fears about the future of AI's involvement in art and design or do you see it as mostly positive?

AI is a primarily positive force in art and design. While some worry about AI displacing traditional roles, those who integrate AI into their creative process will thrive. AI democratizes creativity, making it more accessible and faster, but it will never replace the unique human perspective essential to creating meaningful art. However, as AI evolves, there may come a time when it steps out of its creators' shadows and follows its path. When that happens, AI might discover art for itself and embark on its creative journey, which could be fascinating and transformative.

06

What inspires you to focus mainly on human figures as your subject matter?

Our work often explores themes of anonymity. Human figures are central to this exploration because they allow us to delve into the complexities of identity and the human experience. We are drawn to the blurred, the imperfect, and the unstable, which human figures often embody in our work. This focus aligns with our broader artistic themes and interest in how AI can represent and distort these human elements.

07

What do you find fascinating about exploring the themes of "Encryption" and "Incognito" in your work and how do you see their connection to current times?

The themes of "Encryption" and "Incognito" resonate with us because they reflect the abstract, often hidden aspects of identity and communication in the digital age. In a world where privacy is increasingly elusive, these themes allow us to explore the tension between visibility and anonymity. The abstract nature of our work, where not everything is immediately recognizable, invites viewers to engage more deeply, finding their meanings in the obscured and encrypted images.

08

Your work seems to have evolved much over the "Art Every Day" timeline. What old elements no longer resonate with your current work and what would you like to explore further?

Over time, some aspects of our earlier work have naturally fallen away as our aesthetics have evolved. However, sometimes, old ideas resurface and find their way back into new work. Our practice is constantly evolving, and through our daily routine, we've learned to embrace change and let go of what no longer serves our vision. At the same time, we remain open to revisiting older elements if they feel relevant again. We are particularly interested in exploring AI's chaotic and unpredictable aspects further and integrating new technological developments that help us express complex ideas more clearly.

09

Why is it important to you to create "Art Every Day" and how have you seen the consistency of this movement payoff?

The "ART EVERY DAY" practice is crucial for overcoming creative blockages and perfectionism. By committing to daily creation, we maintain a continuous flow of ideas and development. This consistency has been incredibly rewarding, allowing us to witness the evolution of our work in real time. The daily practice has played a key role in our growth as artists, both in refining our aesthetic and in pushing us to explore new directions continuously.

10

What was your experience collaborating with Vogue Philippines? How has it impacted your work, if at all? And do you have hopes for future collaborations with different media platforms or artists of any kind?

Collaborating with Vogue Philippines was an incredibly enriching experience. The team's professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail made the process smooth and inspiring. Working with such an iconic publication has undoubtedly expanded our visibility and reach and encouraged us to explore new facets of our work. It's been a valuable opportunity to reflect on our journey and to present our vision to a broader audience.