Choose Your Color

A manicure and pedicure usually mean a change of nail polish – with a new color.

Rows of vibrant, colorful bottles of nail polish are organized neatly, creating a visually striking pattern. A wide range of hues, from pinks to blues, fill the nail salon shelves, each labeled distinctly. The words you often hear upon entering the salon are, “Please choose your color.”

nail polish bottles on display
Nail Polish bottles on display for your next manicure or pedicure. What color will you choose?

There’s something undeniably exhilarating about stepping into a nail salon, ready to indulge in the ultimate pampering experience of a mani-pedi. It’s not just about the aesthetic transformation; it’s a moment to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with yourself. As you sink into the plush chair, the soothing scents of essential oils fill the air, setting the stage for an hour or two of blissful relaxation. Whether you’re opting for a classic nail polish look or exploring the vibrant world of gel and acrylics, each choice offers a unique way to express your personality and mood.

The magic begins as skilled technicians work their wonders on your hands and feet, transforming them into canvases of creativity. Gel manicures are perfect for those who crave durability and shine, while acrylics offer endless possibilities for those who love bold, artistic designs. Meanwhile, your toes are treated with equal attention, leaving you with perfectly polished nails that peek out from your favorite sandals. With every brush stroke, the stresses of the week seem to melt away, replaced by a sense of rejuvenation and confidence that only a fresh mani-pedi can provide.

Beyond the allure of beautifully painted nails, there’s a deeper joy in this ritual. A mani-pedi is more than just a beauty treatment; it’s a celebration of self-care and an opportunity to pause and appreciate the simple pleasures in life. As you leave the salon with your nails glistening in the sunlight, you carry with you a renewed sense of energy and a reminder that taking time for yourself is never wasted. After all, when your nails look good, you feel unstoppable!

Dazzling array of color

In the salon, a dazzling array of vibrant, colorful bottles of nail polish stretches across the shelves. Each bottle is neatly organized, creating a visually striking pattern that catches the eye. The display is a delightful rainbow, bursting with every hue imaginable.

From soft, romantic pinks to bold, electric blues, there’s a shade for every mood and occasion. The variety is simply astounding, inviting customers to explore and experiment with different looks. Every bottle is labeled distinctly, making it easy to find just the right color.

The cheerful atmosphere of the salon is enhanced by this kaleidoscope of colors. It’s as if the shelves are whispering promises of fun and creativity to everyone who walks in. This vibrant collection transforms a simple visit into an exciting adventure in self-expression.

Prints available: Choose Your Color by Bill Swartwout

Or… wouldn’t this make a challenging (fun) jigsaw puzzle: Choose Your Color Jigsaw Puzzle by Bill Swartwout – Bill Swartwout


Artificial Intelligence Art Imagery

What is the impact of computer-generated and ai imagery on contemporary art?

Yes, I scored the domain, aiArtImagery.com, to support my foray into the world of artworks created with the use of Artificial Intelligence software algorithms and/or websites offering such services. Computer Generated Images (CGI) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have been in use for a (relatively) long time. We are used to seeing CGI in major motion pictures like Jurassic Park and Star Wars. However, the concept of creating art with Artificial Intelligence by describing, in text, what the desired outcome should be had become somewhat of a buzz-word topic these days.

purple muntain majesty artificial intelligence art example
Purple Mountain Majesty Artificial Intelligence Imagery Example

Computer Generated Imagery (CGI)

Computer-generated imagery (CGI) has had a significant impact on contemporary art. The use of technology in art has allowed artists to create images and animations that were previously impossible to create with traditional methods. CGI has also changed the way that artists create and think about their work, as well as the way that audiences experience and interact with art.

One of the key benefits of CGI in art is that it allows for greater experimentation and exploration. Artists can now create images and animations that are incredibly detailed, complex, and intricate. They can also manipulate and distort reality in new and interesting ways. This has led to the creation of new art forms, such as digital painting and virtual reality installations.

Another impact of CGI on contemporary art is that it has made it more accessible. With the widespread use of computers and digital tools, many more people are now able to create and share their work with a wider audience. This has resulted in a democratization of the art world and has allowed for a wider range of perspectives and voices to be heard.

Finally, CGI has also changed the way that art is experienced and consumed. With the increasing use of digital devices, audiences are now able to engage with art in new and interactive ways. For example, virtual reality installations allow viewers to enter and explore a digital world, while augmented reality apps allow them to experience art in a new and interactive way.

Overall, the impact of CGI on contemporary art has been profound. It has opened up new possibilities for artists, made art more accessible, and changed the way that audiences experience and interact with art.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) Imagery

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been increasingly used in the creation of images and other forms of visual art, and its impact on contemporary art has been significant.

One of the main impacts of AI-generated imagery is that it has opened up new possibilities for artists to experiment and create in ways that were previously not possible. For example, AI algorithms can generate new images or animations based on a set of inputs or parameters, allowing artists to create complex and intricate works that would be difficult or impossible to produce manually.

Fenwick Island Lighthouse
Fenwick Island Lighthouse in the “Starry Night” style of Vincent Van Gogh

Another impact of AI on contemporary art is that it has changed the way that art is created and experienced. AI algorithms can create images that are indistinguishable from those made by human artists, leading to debates about the nature of creativity and authorship in the digital age. AI also has the potential to change the way that audiences experience art, by enabling the creation of immersive and interactive experiences that respond to a viewer’s actions.

Finally, AI has also had an impact on the way that art is consumed and distributed. With the increasing use of digital devices and online platforms, AI-generated images and animations can be easily shared and viewed by a global audience, leading to new and diverse forms of artistic expression.

In conclusion, AI has already begun to have a profound impact on contemporary art and it is likely that this will continue to evolve and grow in the future. As AI technologies advance and become more accessible, they will continue to open up new avenues for artistic exploration and expression.

Change has always been upon us.

Like it or not, we are always experiencing change in one form or another. CGI and AI in art is no exception.

I have been exploring this “new fangled” approach to creating images and have started a small online gallery among the good people at Fine Art America. The two images above are, of course available as wall art and on a variety of home decor items. Click an image above or a link below.

Link to: Purple Mountain Majesty Abstraction

Link to: Starry Night at the Fenwick Island Lighthouse

Link to Bill’s AI Gallery: Artificial Intelligence

More Artificial Intelligence at: Fine Art America


Dangerous Passage

Exploring a bit of artificial intelligence text-to-image creation…

The title may be a bit of double entendre considering that is also the title of the image used in this brief, introductory (teaser) article about the use of “AI” in the creation of art.

difficult passage - ships on a stormy sea
Dangerous Passage by ships on a stormy sea.

A possible “caption” for this image might be…

Sailing ships have always been a symbol of a bygone era. Ancient mariners faced the unpredictability of the sea each time they set sail, and this is particularly true off the coast of Cape Hatteras. With its strong winds and unpredictable currents, being caught in a storm off this notorious cape could spell disaster for even the most experienced sailor. The treacherous waters of Cape Hatteras have long been a challenge to sailors – especially in the age of old sailing ships.

Exploring Artificial Intelligence

I’ve been exploring a bit with AI image creation – but in the above piece, “Difficult Passage,” there was a good bit of post-processing involved. The original concept was text-to-image generation, for sure, but the final look and feel took extra work in Photoshop and Topaz Studio2 and the addition of the “torn apart” border framing the image.

dangerous passage framed sample
Here is how “Dangerous Passage” may look in a frame with a colored mat presentation.

Is it fair to use AI in the creation of art?

Some people claim that this is not art. At all! However, is this any different than a creative person wandering through an art museum and then going home and creating a piece from the inspiration acquired during his museum visit? Or how about a photographer visiting a popular scenic overlook and capturing a landscape or seascape similar to what he saw on a calendar? There are all sorts of “arguments” on both sides of the Artificial Intelligence issue but I believe it is up to the individual to decide…

  • Is it Art?
  • Is it not art?
  • Is it blasphemy?

Yes, it is up to the creator of the piece and each individual buyer/customer to decide.

Yes, “Dangerous Passage” is offered for sale as wall art and on a variety of home decor and apparel items. Click the image above or one of the links below to learn more and to begin shopping.

Link to: Dangerous Passage

Link to: Bill’s Gallery at Fine Art America/Pixels


What do you think about the “torn” edges? They would make it work better on a shirt design – but what about as wall art?


artificial intelligence art