The HRMNY_25 Interview
A conversation with AI Artist hrmny_25, aka @hrmny_25 on X
INTERVIEW CONDUCTED ON JULY 1, 2024
ALL IMAGES BY HRMNY_25 ARE GENERATED USING MIDJOURNEY, KAIBER, CHATGPT, AND NIGHT CAFE UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE
Meet hrmny_25, a talented European artist—and a true science-fiction enthusiast—whose striking signature style combines futuristic themes, fashion, and a bold color palette often dominated by reds and blacks. His distinctive style sets him apart, particularly in his portrayals of alien and futuristic women adorned in exquisite, otherworldly, symmetrical embellishments. These portraits, typically presented in a full-face angle, evoke visions of Queens and Princesses of distant futures—royalty from realms beyond our imagination. His intricate use of gold, bluish/greenish hues, and ornate patterns adds a mesmerizing layer of detail, drawing viewers into the gaze of these beautiful and futuristic beings.
Beyond portraits, hrmny_25’s art often scales human figures against vast dystopian backdrops, creating scenes that are both awe-inspiring and hauntingly beautiful. This is where his use of reds and blacks shines and where his mastery in blending human elements with grand, imposing sci-fi landscapes makes his work not only visually stunning but also deeply evocative, inviting us to ponder the place of humanity within these expansive, speculative settings.
Whether through his richly adorned portraits or his vast, futuristic landscapes, hrmny_25’s art transports us to a realm where science fiction, art, and fashion intertwine, offering a glimpse into a future that feels both distant and intimately familiar. His profile boldly states: "Where science fiction, fashion, art, and NFTs converge. Explore the future of creativity. This is a journey to our inner circle”, and his work is indeed a journey to an inner circle of creativity, where the boundaries of art and imagination are continually expanded. I’m honored and grateful to have him join us for this interview.
Let’s discover hrmny_25 together.
Alone
Without getting too personal, can you tell us a bit about yourself?:
I have a background in the fashion industry, working as a designer. I've also been involved in interior design and have owned multiple bars...
Could you please tell us which country you live in?:
I live in Switzerland.
What led you to begin working with AI imagery?:
My first encounter with AI-generated images was on Instagram. I came across breathtaking science fiction images that showcased a fascinating blend of surreal landscapes and futuristic elements – something I had never seen before. These images had a magnetic pull, and I quickly discovered that they were created through generative art. This sparked my curiosity and passion.
I began to delve deeper into the technology and found various programs that allowed the creation of such artwork. My journey began with NightCafé, a platform that enables users to realize their creative visions through AI algorithms. After my initial experiments, I was overwhelmed by the endless possibilities and the creative freedom these tools offer.
What fascinates me the most is the collaboration between human and machine. AI enables the visualization of ideas in a way that was previously unimaginable, and this constantly inspires me to embark on new projects. It's as if AI opens a window to an infinite world of creativity, where every thought and vision can become a reality.
This adventure has elevated my artistic work to an entirely new level, allowing me to express my creativity in ways I never thought possible. The path I've embarked on was just the beginning, and I am excited to see where this journey will take me next.
What AI tools do you use?:
midjourney ¡ kaiber ¡ chatgpt ¡ nightcafé
What inspires you?:
Inspiration comes to me from a myriad of sources. Nature, with its breathtaking landscapes and intricate details of insects, provides a constant wellspring of ideas. The beauty and complexity found in the natural world never cease to amaze me.
Black and white photography also plays a significant role in my creative process. The stark contrasts and profound depth it offers evoke a sense of timelessness and emotion that is incredibly powerful. This form of photography captures the essence of a moment, stripping away distractions and focusing on the core elements of composition and light.
Fashion and art are other major influences. The ever-evolving trends and bold statements in fashion push me to explore new aesthetics and concepts. Similarly, art in its many forms, from classical to contemporary, challenges and inspires me to think outside the box and experiment with different styles and techniques.
Science fiction holds a special place in my heart. The genre’s ability to transport us to fantastical worlds and explore futuristic ideas fuels my imagination. Films with strong visual tension and emotion also deeply resonate with me. The storytelling through stunning visuals and compelling narratives in such movies often sparks new ideas and drives my creative vision.
Ultimately, it is this blend of natural beauty, artistic expression, and visionary storytelling that continuously inspires and motivates me to create. Each source of inspiration brings a unique perspective, helping me to develop a diverse and rich body of work.
Untitled
(One of @revelinai’s favorite images by hrmny_25)
In which other medium, if any, do you practice art?:
I explore my creativity through various artistic mediums. Photography is one of my primary passions. Capturing the world through the lens allows me to see and present everyday scenes in a unique and compelling way. The play of light, shadows, and composition in photography deeply influences my artistic vision.
Digital art is another significant aspect of my creative practice. Using tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, I create intricate and imaginative works that blend reality with fantasy. This medium provides immense flexibility and enables me to experiment with different styles and techniques.
I also have a deep appreciation for abstract art. The freedom to express emotions and ideas without the constraints of realistic representation is liberating. My abstract pieces often serve as a reflection of my inner thoughts and feelings, conveyed through bold colors, shapes, and textures.
In addition to these, I enjoy drawing with charcoal and pencil. This traditional medium allows for a direct and tactile connection with my art. The process of sketching and shading helps me refine my understanding of form, contrast, and detail. It’s a meditative practice that complements my work in digital and abstract art.
Each of these mediums offers a unique way to express my creativity and explore new ideas. By diversifying my artistic practice, I continually discover new techniques and perspectives that enrich my overall body of work.
Would you consider AI-generated art true art?:
Absolutely. AI-generated art is a natural evolution in our digital age, much like Picasso's abstract painting in the 1940s, which was initially misunderstood. Art knows no boundaries, whether created by humans or machines.
The essence of art lies in its ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought. AI-generated art, guided by human intent, explores new realms of creativity and aesthetics. It can inspire, challenge, and move us just like traditional art forms, making it a valid and valuable expression of creativity.
Please share one or a few of your favorite images with us.:
I’ll share a few here, including early AI work.
space v¡s¡øn #77
Do you title your AI-generated art? If you do, what inspires you to come up with these titles?:
Not always, but often I do. The titles usually reflect my goals for the piece and depend on the project I’m working on. Inspiration comes from the emotions the art evokes, the themes I’m exploring, or the standout elements in the piece. The title adds another layer of meaning, helping viewers connect more deeply with the artwork.
When do you tend to be the most productive, and do you work in long sessions or short bursts?:
I tend to be most productive during my free time, as I have a full-time job. Creating AI-generated art is an intense hobby for me. I typically work in long sessions when I can fully immerse myself in the creative process, but I also make use of short bursts of inspiration when my schedule allows.
Untitled
What type of prompts do you prefer: text or AI-generated descriptions through fed images?:
I use both, depending on what I want to create. For more precise creations, I prefer text prompts. When exploring new ideas, I use various images. About 80% of the time, I incorporate my previously generated images into new artworks, blending them to create something fresh and unique.
When prompting with text, do you write simple text-based prompts or complex ones?:
I use both, depending on what I want to create. Simple prompts work well for straightforward ideas, while complex prompts help me explore more intricate concepts and themes.
Do you think text-based prompts should be shared within the AI art community?:
I have mixed feelings about widely sharing text-based prompts within the AI art community. While it can be beneficial for beginners to have access to prompts to kickstart their creativity, I believe that the true essence of artistic growth lies in experimentation and personal exploration. Artistry, whether AI-generated or traditional, thrives on individuality and the discovery of a unique style.
There's value in the journey of crafting prompts tailored to one's own artistic vision. It fosters a deeper understanding of how different inputs influence the output and allows artists to develop a distinctive approach. Simply sharing prompts could potentially limit this learning process and stifle creativity by encouraging reliance on predefined ideas.
That being said, platforms where artists can sell or exchange prompts can be useful resources, especially for those looking to collaborate or explore specific themes. However, I believe it's essential for artists to strike a balance between utilizing external prompts and cultivating their own creative instincts. Ultimately, the journey to finding one's artistic voice requires dedication, experimentation, and a willingness to push boundaries.
What is the most unconventional method you have used to create an image?:
I've creatively used the Midjourney /describe feature by feeding it my own photos or digital subjects, refining descriptions until I achieve the desired result. This method allows for iterative exploration and enhances my creative process.
How many images you have generated using AI technology?:
I've generated approximately 20,000 images using AI technology.
Mystical Maidens Endless ORNAMENTED | 6
Please share your X (Twitter) handle with us.:
Tell us a bit about your X handle and X username.:
On X, I've learned a great deal and continually draw inspiration from other artists. The platform fosters excellent exchange among artists, constantly challenging and stimulating me creatively.
My username, hrmny_25 combines my fascination with harmony in both life and visual art, along with the year 2025. Harmony is a guiding principle for me, influencing how I perceive proportions, drama, and the interplay of colors—all essential elements for creating a perfect image.
The number 25 was somewhat arbitrary and holds no specific meaning, except that it points toward the upcoming year 2025. Whether it will have an impact on my work remains to be seen, but I'm open to how it may influence my artistic journey.
How many X followers do you currently have?:
5,240
How many X accounts do you currently follow?:
5,850
How long have you been on X (Twitter)?:
I created my X account in May 2022, but I really started to dive in and intensify my efforts in August 2022.
Peace in Our Soul
Is there any other online platform where we can view all of your previous work apart from X?:
Yes, I originally started sharing my work on Instagram. However, I haven't been active on Instagram for several months now. I do plan to ramp up my activity there soon and start posting regularly again.
In this world of cryptocurrencies and non-fungible tokens (NFTs), are you currently selling your digital art on any platform? If so, which platform are you using?:
Yes, I am actively selling my digital art on several platforms. You can find my work on OpenSea, Rarible, Foundation, MakersPlace, and Objkt.com. Recently, I've been particularly active on the Uncut.network.
Are you selling tangible AI-generated artwork, such as high-quality prints like Giclée prints?:
Yes, it is possible to order tangible AI-generated artwork on request. Privately, I can print up to A3 size (11.7” × 16.5”) on various types of paper.
Could you suggest some AI artists you like that we could follow?:
Certainly! Here are some exciting and longstanding figures in the AI art scene:
and many more.
Is there anything else you would like to add or share with the AI community?:
Yes, the key to success in anything you do lies in approaching it with passion, joy, and focus.
Don't look back
More fantastic imagery from hrmny_25
Follow him @hrmny_25