The Piotr Binkowski Interview
A conversation with AI Artist Piotr Binkowski, aka @piotrbinkowski on X
INTERVIEW CONDUCTED ON JUNE 30, 2024
ALL IMAGES BY PIOTR BINKOWSKI ARE GENERATED USING MIDJOURNEY UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE
I immediately loved the style of Piotr Binkowski, a remarkable AI artist from Poland who consistently generates stunning art. Each piece invites viewers into a world where imagination soars, often depicting massive buildings, circular and likely magical portals, mysterious gateways, and futuristic or ancient alien structures.
Piotr's art stands out with its distinct vintage, gritty aesthetic, adding depth and character to his creations. The weathered textures and muted tones evoke a sense of timelessness, transporting us to other eras or far-off, mysterious realms.
In many of Piotr's works, humanoid figures—often dwarfed by the colossal scale of their surroundings—add a compelling narrative element (a technique I also like to use in my own art). These tiny characters, set against the grandeur of his architectural wonders, emphasize the vastness and mystery of his imagined worlds.
Piotr doesn’t often title his images but writes short stories to illustrate many of them. Sometimes these narratives consist of just a few lines, while other times, they span entire paragraphs. This storytelling aspect enhances the immersive quality of his art, making each piece a complete, multifaceted experience. So far, I’ve encountered only one other artist who proceeds in a similar way at times (John Harvey @digitallywired ; an interview that will be featured in a few weeks).
Piotr's unique style and visionary approach to AI art make him a standout artist in the field. His creations are not just images but stories waiting to be discovered, offering a glimpse into universes where the extraordinary is commonplace and the unknown beckons at every turn. I am honored and grateful to have him join us for this interview.
Let’s discover Piotr Binkowski together.
Find a window through which you can see more.
Without getting too personal, can you tell us a bit about yourself?:
I love writing. As I grew older, I realized it’s what I truly want to do. Along the way, I discovered many things I didn't want. Now, I’m untangling myself from those to fully commit to creating.
Could you please tell us which country you live in?:
I live in Poland.
What led you to begin working with AI imagery?:
I’ve always enjoyed new things. One major breakthrough was watching the internet emerge and grow in significance (I'm 38 years old).
Shortly after GPT was released, I became fascinated by its potential, starting with text work. Later, I discovered Midjourney and other possibilities. I got hooked and found it an ideal complement to writing, as well as a way to reach a broader audience.
What AI tools do you use?:
Mainly Midjourney and GPT, but I enjoy testing new tools. I'd like to spend more time working with animations, as I see great potential there too.
What inspires you?:
People and the world. It may sound clichéd, but anything that disrupts my balance inspires me. I enjoy listening to others and trying to understand their perspectives, especially when they see things differently than I do.
I grew up with games and books. Cinema has been a major inspiration too.
I also love reading about ancient civilizations and the distant past, often using them as a starting point to ponder "what if?" and build various narratives.
The entrance to an underground city, a spaceshipwreck, or perhaps a time machine?
(One of @revelinai’s favorite images by Piotr Binkowski)
In which other medium, if any, do you practice art?:
I’ve devoted most of my life to writing. It gives me the greatest joy and helps me express what's built up inside.
I like drawing. Although my technique is lacking, I hope to improve that.
Would you consider AI-generated art true art?:
Yes, with the caveat that it’s a separate form of expression. I wouldn’t compare the quality or importance of AI works to paintings or photographs. I see different potentials and possibilities in it.
I don’t focus on valuing it against other methods and tools. Art should speak and expand awareness. If it has content and tries to show something uniquely, it’s important. If the creator is aware of their voice and uses it to draw attention to something, it’s artistic expression.
Not everything has to be art. Some things are simply beautiful and enhance life.
That’s where I’d draw the line between being and not being art.
Please share one or a few of your favorite images with us.:
I’ll share four.
Piotr Binkowski’s favorite images
Do you title your AI-generated art? If you do, what inspires you to come up with these titles?:
Rarely. I prefer to add more text - a scene, fragment, or even story. For me, graphics extend writing, and I always try to create a narrative or encourage viewers to do so.
When do you tend to be the most productive, and do you work in long sessions or short bursts?:
Both. I usually work in the evenings, and I function best when I should already be asleep.
I carry my phone daily, jotting down or executing ideas whenever they come.
Something is missing here.
What type of prompts do you prefer: text or AI-generated descriptions through fed images?:
Text-based. I’ve tried generating them but I wasn’t satisfied.
When prompting with text, do you write simple text-based prompts or complex ones?:
More often, I create detailed, elaborate prompts. This makes AI less predictable, and among many repetitions, there’s a chance to find what I’m looking for.
Do you think text-based prompts should be shared within the AI art community?:
It depends on the uniqueness. If someone has developed a particular style, it’s ok to keep it hide.
I don’t add prompts, but I’m always happy to share information if asked.
What is the most unconventional method you have used to create an image?:
Sometimes I use my works as a reference point if I like the style. Often, such graphics require longer tweaking and fine-tuning elements using the 'vary region' feature.
How many images you have generated using AI technology?:
About 7,000.
Neon magma tower.
For lovers of warm welcomes.
Please share your X (Twitter) handle with us.:
Tell us a bit about your X handle and X username.:
It's just me. I decided not to create a brand and go for a more personal connection, and I’m happy with that choice.
How many X followers do you currently have?:
Approximately 2,400
How many X accounts do you currently follow?:
Approximately 1,900
How long have you been on X (Twitter)?:
I’ve had the account for 12 years, but I’ve been posting for just under 3 months.
GN. I'm leaving this day behind.
Is there any other online platform where we can view all of your previous work apart from X?:
Yes, I’ve been active on Instagram for the past year. But after starting to post on X, I took a break from it ;)
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?:
No. I’m considering it because I’d like to focus more on creating without needing to work somewhere else. But I don’t want to spoil my relationship with my audience by selling, and I don’t have time to do it properly. For now, I’ll pass.
Are you selling tangible AI-generated artwork, such as high-quality prints like Giclée prints?:
No. But I did send some higher-resolution files to a few people so they could handle the printing themselves.
Could you suggest some AI artists you like that we could follow?:
I find something noteworthy on X almost every day. Three accounts with a distinctive style come to mind:
Is there anything else you would like to add or share with the AI community?:
Thank you for being active, kind, and creative.
Don’t give up, and keep making changes. I look forward to growing together with you.
The ball of unyielding fire halted in the midday sky, a radiant anomaly in the daily rhythm. Fields once green turned gold, blades of grass gleaming. Birds ceased their flight. The village clock, ancient and rusted, struck a mute hour, its hands paralyzed by an unseen force. Eyes turned upwards, shaded by trembling hands, seeking answers in the blinding light. The air hummed with an electric stillness, as if time itself held its breath.
More fantastic imagery from Piotr Binkowski
Follow him @piotrbinkowski
