.aesthetic talk
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz
AI in Art Reimagined
written + interview Tagen Donovan
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz’s practice modifies our visual understanding of the past through reconfigurations of iconic pre and postmodernist imagery.
Occupying the periphery of convention, Von Wolfe utilises innovative techniques with use of AI technology, harnessing the tools of a visually hyper-saturated landscape. The revered artist has been described as both ‘an unbound geneticist turned artist’ and ‘a contemporary iconoclast’. Steadily commandeering the intersection of classics and modernity.
Graduating with a degree in Philosophy from the University of York, specialising in Contemporary Epistemology. Naturally the exploration between linguistics, mythology, and the complexities surrounding identity remain at the forefront of Von Wolfe’s practice, combined with the nuances of AI generation - the artist engages his audience with critical thought-systems, and invites the notion of a (re)contextualised trajectory of art. Most importantly, what lies at the core of his visual consideration remains the use of language, and it’s reinterpretation within the sphere of visual arts. On all counts, Von Wolfe remains a disruptor. Eliciting an awareness of a subtle complacency towards our visual world that we have in turn grown indifferent towards.
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz
Always Screaming When Her Voice Is Cracked, 2022
40 x 40 cm
Copyright The Artist
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz
The Kiss, 2022 Works
85 x 80 cm
Copyright The Artist
It could be said that our understanding of visual language has become somewhat warped through the avalanche of cultural knowledge that we often get overwhelmed by. The extent to which we place our trust in almost familial reproductions of iconic artworks, begs to question if we still maintain the ability to appreciate these monumentally important artefacts from bygone eras. It is through this concept of inquisition where we see the importance of the artists exploration of complex issues within the contemporary and artificial intelligent realm. Provocative by nature, Von Wolfe's work reveals the breaking of barriers by way of a distinct visual-syntax. Conceptualising ‘meta-history’ in order to fashion a new mythology - a history about the history of art.
Holding philosophers Wittgenstein and Paul Feyerabend as having a profound influence on the artist. It would be the work of Wittgenstein’s that particularly enamoured Von Wolfe, and the concept of rule-following among philosophical investigations. Deeply resonating with the growth of natural language-coding remains closely aligned with the artists fixation. However to the same degree, Feyerabend’s realisation that science is a belief-system much like any other, and is intrinsically shaped by culture balances out Von Wolfe’s perspective and encourages the process of critical thinking, especially to the tune of the role science plays among society. Wittgenstein and Feverabend have provided valuable insight to the artist, allowing a deeper grasp relative to the nature of language and the ways in which we understand and engage with the world.
In contrast to other artists, Von Wolfe does not position himself as a singular artist with an overarching desire to dominate visual history by virtue of the unparalleled works that he creates. Instead, Von Wolfe operates from a meta- postmodernist vantage-point, examining society’s construction of art history as a fiction, yet remaining authentic to his approach. Extracting meaning within our preexisting realms of information, Von Wolfe unearths and resurrects works from the past, stretching to the self-professed “red hot period of art history”, spanning between 33,00 BC to 1519 AD.
Embellished with symbolism and an undeniable classical skill. Von Wolfe employs a full mastery of the techniques utilised by the original artists tinged with the fluency of AI technology. The sheer magnitude of his work, together with a dexterous grasp of contrasting aesthetics work to dissect and reconstruct. Most importantly, Von Wolfe warmly embraces history – equally with scope to challenge it. Through the cultivation of disparate elements, belief-systems pertaining to the modern and postmodern leads the artist down the rabbit hole, encountering new worlds and beyond.
As the course of visual and contemporary culture continues to evolve, so must the perception of the language and imagery around us. Continuing his exploration into a non-linear history, Von Wolfe single handedly disrupts traditional artistic practices by reverse engineering and adapting techniques to fit the current zeitgeist.
“AI raises questions about ethics, aesthetics, and autonomy. It disrupts traditional practices and challenges our notions of 'art', operating independently and raising questions about human control and agency.”
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz speaks with Tagen Donovan
LE MILE Magazine DAZED, Nr. 34
Tagen Donovan
What are your thoughts on the relationship between artificial intelligence and contemporary art? In what way does this mesh with your practice?
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz
When it comes to artificial intelligence and contemporary art, there are many complex issues to consider. One of the main areas of concern is ethics, as the use of AI raises questions about the roles and responsibilities of both the artist and the technology. There are also aesthetic concerns, as AI has the potential to disrupt traditional artistic practices and create new forms of art that challenge our traditional notions of what constitutes “art”. Another important aspect to consider is autonomy, as AI has the ability to operate independently and make decisions on its own, which raises questions about human control and agency. Finally, there is the issue of the very nature of art itself, as AI has the potential to fundamentally alter our understanding of what art is and how it is created. These are just a few of the many facets that must be unpacked when considering the intersection of artificial intelligence and contemporary art, and they all contribute to the complex and dynamic landscape of this rapidly evolving field.
Your work evokes a sense of history, the characters inhabit their own world that resembles a bygone era. How do you interpret the environment and the figures depicted in your paintings? And what cultural references do you lean towards when mapping out a new piece?
In my artistic process, I carefully consider the cultural references that I choose to incorporate into my work. I often prompt the AI to focus on artists who are centuries old and whose works are in the public domain, as these provide a rich source of inspiration that is outside of copyright restrictions. By reverse engineering these artists and adapting their styles to fit the contemporary zeitgeist, I am able to create art that is rooted in tradition but also relevant to the present moment. When the AI produces less coherent results, I sometimes turn to traditional drawing techniques to help guide the direction of the work. Finally, I physically paint the digital works using traditional methods such as oil painting on canvas or panel; seeing both the AI- generated and human-made images as independent and equal art manifestations of the process. It is important to me that both aspects of the process are given equal weight and attention.
What is the impetus behind your body of work – what idea did you begin with, and how did this develop overtime to where it is at present?
One of the main goals of my work is to identify and explore aesthetic “outliers”; or unusual traits within the thousands of artworks I have created with AI. By testing these pieces against each other at a high frequency, I am able to identify those that stand out artistically and may be relevant to contemporary issues such as gender, race, sexuality, and disability. Rather than approaching these subjects in a journalistic manner, my work aims to delve into them in a more visceral and psychological way. In addition, I strive to counterbalance any biases that may have been present in the data used to train the AI by carefully considering the prompts and post-production processes. By seeking out and examining these outliers, I hope to shed new light on important social issues and offer fresh perspectives on the world around us.
What kind of relationship do you have with your work? Does this relationship extend itself to the characters portrayed within your practice?
One of the byproducts of creating my work at such a high frequency is that I am able to approach it as if I were a stranger, rather than becoming too attached to it.This allows me to survey the meaning within the shared language and culture of our society in the same way that others might. By creating a sense of dislocation between myself and the work, I am able to retain a certain level of objectivity and perspective. Too close an attachment to the “self” within the image could potentially lead to biases or subjective interpretations that might distort the intended message or meaning. By maintaining a sense of distance, I am able to better understand and communicate my ideas to others in a clear and effective way. This does not mean I fail to have an emotional response but rather my aesthetic choices and reactions are not distorted by my sense of ownership.
With a considerable presence on social media, do you find the intertwining of virtual and physical worlds at all invasive? How important do you feel it is for a contemporary viewer to relate to the subjects of your work?
I take my use of social media very seriously and see it as a crucial platform for sharing my art with the world. Despite being virtual, my presence on social media puts me in the public realm, much like a street artist who performs for a live audience. I find social media to be both rewarding and challenging, as it allows me to connect with a wide audience but can also expose me to criticism and polarising debates. In addition to social media, I also use Discord as a way to engage with a community, particularly for my upcoming NFT project TREASURY, which is set to launch in 2023. Overall, I see social media and online communities as an important part of my artistic practice and am always seeking to find new and creative ways to engage with my audience.
Humour is a common thread that runs deep within your practice, could you elaborate on this?
It is not something I consciously try to incorporate. In fact, I see myself as being completely devoid of it. However, I have had experiences where my work has been met with unexpected laughter, such as when I showed a film featuring characters in strange costumes I had made, who were supposed to be enlightened thinkers having an argument on a beach. Despite my initial embarrassment, I have come to realise that the humour in my work is of a peculiar, uncanny nature. I want viewers to approach my digital images or large- scale paintings in a gallery and feel a sense of uncertainty about whether they should laugh or cry. Upon closer examination, they may be drawn to the intricate details of the outfits and design elements, even as the overall image is disturbing or unsettling. It is as if the horror of Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, is inappropriately followed by an unexpected appreciation for the aesthetics of the cool jumpsuits the characters are wearing.
Beyond the art world, what or who inspires you? Are there any rituals or activities that connect you with creativity?
The philosophers Wittgenstein and Paul Feyerabend have had a profound influence on my thinking and continue to be relevant in our present culture. Wittgenstein’s work, particularly his concept of rule-following in the Philosophical Investigations, resonates with me as I see the growth of natural language coding as closely aligned with this idea. At the same time, Feyerabend’s realisation that science is a belief system like any other and is shaped by culture, but is not necessarily hierarchically progressive, helps to balance my perspective and encourages me to think critically about the role of science in society. These philosophers have provided me with valuable insights and have helped me to think more deeply about the nature of language, knowledge, and the ways in which we understand and engage with the world.
There’s a timelessness about your work, yet your paintings are rich with references to other decades. Which eras and movements do you feel most affinity with?
Of the narrow range of European art culture, I have a particular fondness for the work of Rogier van der Weyden and Leonardo da Vinci, particularly da Vinci’s lost works such as the Battle of Anghiari, Leda and the Swan, and the early Garden of Eden. I particularly like the span of a wide range of time, from 33,000 BC to 1519 AD, which represent what I consider to be a “red hot”period in art history. However, my fascination with art is not limited to just European culture. I have a nearly infinite curiosity and appreciation for the art of all cultures around the world and am captivated by the creativity and cultural significance of all forms of art.
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz
Magdalene, 2022
130 x 130 cm
Copyright The Artist
“My goal is to explore aesthetic 'outliers' in AI-generated artworks, addressing contemporary issues like gender, race, and disability in a visceral and psychological way.”
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz speaks with Tagen Donovan
LE MILE Magazine DAZED, Nr. 34
Wolfe von Lenkiewicz
The Runners, 2022
220 x 220 cm
Copyright The Artist
Could you elaborate on your background and your journey to becoming an artist?
I guess I am more comfortable with a blank bio.
What is your stance and relationship between the fusion of contemporary art, architecture, fashion, craft and fine-art (Gesamtkunstwerk)?
My goal is to create a unique and innovative form of art that combines and reimagines the styles of historical artists, much like how NASA fine- tuned the mirrors on the James Webb telescope. I am deeply interested in the psychology of my subjects and strive to create art that is relevant and meaningful for the contemporary moment. In regards to fashion, I also design original clothing, shoes, and hairstyles to complete my artistic vision within the paintings.This new form of art is intended for both the digital realm of social media and the physical world, and can be described as a type of international high frequency art that embodies metamodernism.
Your paintings communicate a sense of optimism, accentuated by vivid colour palettes, comical gestures and jovial expressions. This tongue-in- cheek approach to cultural critique feels inherently British. Would you agree that this method of evaluation behind your work lends itself to being more accessible to a wider audience?
Although I have never personally been inspired by a British artist, with the exception of the esteemed portrait miniaturist Nicholas Hilliard, I must acknowledge that Britain has a rich history of artistic and cultural contributions. The country’s literary and scientific achievements are well-known and respected throughout the world. Despite my lack of personal connection to British art, I cannot help but be impressed and inspired by many of its artists such as Gwen John, Augustus John, Meredith Frampton and Alfred Gilbert.
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all images (c) Wolfe von Lenkiewicz Studio