Introducing Lucky Star: Embracing the Future Through Digital Collectibles
In the realm of art and technology, my journey has been one of resilience, discovery, and ultimately, empowerment. It began several years ago, within the confines of a corporate America job by day and a passionate hobbyist digital/mixed media artist by night. My aspirations to venture beyond the conventional were always present, yet it took an unforeseen turn of events to catalyze my transition into the world of digital collectibles.
A Turn of Fate in 2020
The year 2020, marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, brought about a seismic shift in my life. I found myself furloughed from my new corporate job, stranded thousands of miles away from family, and navigating the end of a significant romantic relationship. This period of isolation and hardship, though challenging, became a crucible for transformation. It was during this time, amidst emotional and spiritual turmoil, that my resolve to pursue my artistic passions not only persisted but grew stronger.
Discovery of Digital Collectibles
My journey into the world of digital collectibles began in earnest in 2021, introduced to me by my now spouse. Initially, my engagement with digital collectibles was tentative. In early 2022, I embarked on my first project, releasing digital collectibles based on my photography for free on Reddit. This initiative aimed to demystify digital collectibles for newcomers and provide a safe entry point for young enthusiasts to own their first piece of digital art.
The AI Exploration
The exploration deepened with my encounter with early AI technologies such as Stable Diffusion, DALL-E, and MidjourneyAI. I fed my digital paintings and sketches into these AI models as the technology was available at the time, refining the output through post-processing to achieve my artistic vision. However, this process was not without its challenges. I quickly realized the inherent biases within these AI models, particularly in their handling of subjects with darker skin tones. Overcoming these biases required persistence and creativity, driving me to perfect the technique and representation.
A Call to Action
My journey with digital collectibles and AI has been more than just an artistic endeavor; it is a call to action. The biases encountered in AI are a reflection of broader societal issues that require attention and advocacy. My ambition is for individuals, especially those who share my heritage and skin tone, to see my work not only as art but as a rallying cry for representation and equity in the digital age.
Looking Forward
As I continue to navigate the evolving landscape of digital collectibles and AI, my vision remains clear. I strive for a future where diversity and authenticity are at the forefront of digital art and technology. My voice is but one among many, and I urge others to raise theirs in a chorus calling for progress and inclusivity.
My journey from a janitor-closet temp to hire to corporate employee to a trailblazer in the digital collectibles space reflects a broader narrative of resilience, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of representation. It is a testament to the power of art and technology to catalyze change, challenge norms, and empower voices. As we stand at this historical juncture, let us seize the opportunity to shape our digital future, ensuring it reflects the rich tapestry of humanity in all its diversity.