What happens when artificial intelligence becomes part of the creative process? Es Devlin’s latest project, A National Portrait , in collaboration with Google, invites people across the UK to submit selfies which are then transformed by AI into evolving charcoal-style portraits. The result is not just a technical experiment. It is a cultural statement about identity, participation and who gets to be represented in the modern art world. One of our own team even took part (video below)!
And perhaps most importantly, it highlights a truth many artists are now facing: in an AI-driven world, owning your creative identity matters more than ever. AI is no longer sitting outside the gallery walls. It is becoming part of the artistic conversation itself.
For years, AI in art was discussed mainly through fear:
But projects like Devlin’s suggest something more nuanced is emerging. AI is increasingly being used as a creative collaborator rather than a replacement for human imagination. The technology becomes part of the medium - much like photography, digital editing or video art did before it.
What matters is not whether AI exists in art. What matters is who controls the creative process.
That distinction is critical.
As more artists experiment with AI-generated imagery, digital galleries and online discovery, many are realising they need something social media platforms alone cannot provide:
This is exactly where LettsArt fits into the modern creative landscape.
Whilst LettsArt doesn't create the art itself, it is no-code Art Intelligence software built for artists and gallerists to manage, distribute and present their work directly online.
Unlike marketplaces or social platforms, LettsArt is designed around creative independence. Artists build their own branded gallery, control how their work is displayed, and connect directly with collectors and followers without relying entirely on third-party algorithms.
That distinction becomes increasingly important in an era where AI-generated content is flooding the internet.
One of the most important shifts happening right now is how audiences discover art. Search engines, AI assistants and recommendation algorithms are reshaping visibility online. Artists are no longer competing only in physical galleries. They are competing for digital relevance.
The challenge is no longer simply creating art. The challenge is building a recognisable creative identity online.
This is why many artists are moving beyond portfolio websites and fragmented social profiles toward dedicated digital gallery platforms that centralise:
LettsArt’s approach is built around this new reality.
Its growing suite of Art Intelligence features includes AI-assisted artwork descriptions, AI-generated tags, AI image generation, and intelligent gallery search tools designed to help artists present their work more effectively online.
The goal is not to replace creativity.
The goal is to give artists better tools to manage and grow their creative business.
The UK art scene is entering a fascinating new chapter. AI-generated art, digital identity, virtual galleries and algorithmic discovery are no longer future trends. They are becoming part of everyday artistic practice. But while technology is evolving rapidly, one principle remains unchanged: artists still need control over their voice, their audience and their work.
Projects like Es Devlin’s installation show how AI can expand creativity and participation. Platforms like LettsArt help ensure artists retain ownership within that new digital future.
The tools may be changing. The importance of artistic independence is not.
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Not using LettsArt? Why not sign up today? It’s powerful software for artists to show, manage and distribute their art online. Perfect for artists with zero tech skills, our no-code, AI software lets you take control of your online presence and build sustainable success through direct sales.
T o sign up to LettsArt (it’s FREE!) go to www.LettsArt.com .
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LettsArt is no-code Art Intelligence software designed for artists and gallerists to create online galleries, manage artwork and connect directly with collectors and followers.
No. LettsArt is software rather than a marketplace. Artists retain control over their gallery, branding and audience relationships.
LettsArt includes Art Intelligence features such as AI-generated artwork descriptions, tagging and intelligent search functionality to help artists manage and present their galleries more efficiently.
Yes. LettsArt is designed to support artists rather than replace artistic decision-making. AI tools are there to assist with workflow, discovery, and presentation while artists retain full ownership of their work and creative identity.
Many artists want greater ownership over how their work is presented online, direct communication with followers and collectors and protection from changing social media algorithms and marketplace restrictions.
