🎨 ChatGPT for Visual Artists: Embracing the Future Without Losing Your Soul

The art world is changing and so are the tools we use to support our creativity.

If you're a visual artist, you’ve probably heard whispers (or heated debates) about AI tools like ChatGPT. You may have even experimented with it, or perhaps you’re still sitting on the sidelines, wondering: Is this ethical? Is it even necessary?

I understand the hesitation. As artists, we're deeply connected to the authenticity of our work. It’s natural to question anything that feels even remotely like "taking a shortcut." But after using ChatGPT extensively in my own creative practice and business, I can honestly say: it has been one of the most important time-saving tools I've ever discovered.

And it hasn’t replaced my creativity — it’s enhanced it. 

How ChatGPT has helped my creative practice

Like many of you, I wear multiple hats: artist, marketer, business manager, communicator. 

Here’s where ChatGPT has truly made a difference for me:

• Titling artworks: Finding just the right words to capture the emotion of a piece used to take hours. Now, ChatGPT helps me brainstorm evocative titles quickly, sparking ideas I can refine with my own artist’s eye.
• Improving SEO: Writing search-friendly text for my website used to feel tedious and confusing. With ChatGPT, I can craft descriptions that actually help people find my work online — without losing the soul of my message.
• Writing social media posts: Instead of staring at a blinking cursor, I generate thoughtful, on-brand captions that feel natural and true to my voice.
• Crafting proposals: Whether it’s grant applications, exhibition submissions, or workshop proposals, having a structured draft to start from saves me hours of mental load.
• Even writing this blog article: Yes, ChatGPT helped me outline and organise my thoughts for this very blog — but every idea, every nuance, every final word is my own.

Is it cheating, or just a new kind of brush?

I get it — using an AI tool can feel a little like tracing someone else’s work. But here’s the truth: ChatGPT is a tool, not a creator.

Just like we use brushes, palettes, Photoshop, or even reference photos — ChatGPT offers support, not shortcuts.

• It doesn't "make" your art.
• It doesn't "think" like you do.
• It doesn’t replace your intuition, your critical eye, or your soul.

You are still the artist

ChatGPT simply clears the clutter so you can spend more time in your zone of genius.

Why staying relevant matters

The art world — like every other industry — is evolving at lightning speed.
Those who learn to integrate technology thoughtfully will stay connected, relevant, and thriving. Those who resist everything new risk becoming invisible, no matter how talented they are.

Learning how to use AI tools ethically, artistically, and authentically is no longer optional. It’s part of growing as a contemporary creative.

Are you ready to embrace the future with me?

This June, I’m hosting a special hands-on workshop designed just for visual artists:

ChatGPT for Artists

Where: Roundbird Artspace, Lilydale
When: Saturday 21st June  

We'll explore how ChatGPT can help you:

• Title and describe your artworks beautifully
• Write social media posts that actually sound like you
• Improve your SEO and get your work discovered online
• Save time on business tasks so you can focus more on creating

No jargon. No pressure. Just practical, real-world ways to make technology work for you — not against you.

Whether you’re a tech-skeptic or already a curious explorer, you’ll walk away empowered, not overwhelmed.

Final thoughts

At the end of the day, tools like ChatGPT are just that - tools! It’s still your hand, your heart, and your vision shaping everything you share with the world.

And with the right mindset and a little guidance, these tools can help you soar, not stumble.

I’d love to see you there.  Spaces are limited, book here.