In the contemporary art world, artificial intelligence (AI) is gradually establishing itself as a new creative tool, generating both enthusiasm and concern. But how can you co-create original works by making the most of these new technologies? Samy Abou El Ainin, an artist from Valais and vice-president of Art Valais, candidly shared his experience of collaborating with AI, demonstrating how this technology can enrich the artistic process without replacing it.
Two years ago, I typed the word “cow” into an AI software program. The result wasn’t really a cow, but rather what the machine thought a cow should look like. I was fascinated,’ says Samy Abou El Ainin.
This initial experience was the starting point for a profound reflection on how AI could be integrated into his artistic practice. Originally a graphic designer and therefore ‘comfortable with the act of painting’, the Valais-based artist quickly found himself at a crossroads with this new technology, like many of his colleagues in the field.
‘There is a divide between those who say we are feeding the beast and those who use AI on a daily basis,’ observes Samy Abou El Ainin, referring to the debates that are animating the artistic community.
A monumental fresco born from human-machine collaboration
The first work co-created with AI came to fruition in 2023 when Le Nouvelliste contacted the artist to create a work celebrating the newspaper’s 120th anniversary. ‘It was a pivotal moment for newspapers, as it was for artists, with many questions surrounding digital technology.’
For this project, Samy Abou El Ainin developed an innovative approach. ‘For 120 years, Le Nouvelliste has been reporting on events in Valais. So I asked the AI to generate images based on words representing Valais.’ Hundreds of visuals were created by artificial intelligence, before the artist selected, cut and assembled them. The result? An impressive fresco measuring 2 metres high by 14 metres long, installed in the newspaper’s offices.
AI, an amplifier of artistic vision
For Samy Abou El Ainin, artificial intelligence is not a threat, but a tool that allows certain limitations to be overcome. ‘I know what I want to achieve and I have the artistic vision. Ultimately, AI allows me to go faster and further, without technical constraints, especially since I’m not good enough to use certain technical tools.’
This pragmatic approach has allowed him to explore new creative possibilities. ‘I fed the artificial intelligence hundreds of my works to train it in my own style. So I can ask it to suggest what I could have created.’ This method offers him a multitude of proposals that he can then interpret and bring to life through his painting, for example.
Above all, a work of art must engage its audience
The artist remains firm on one essential point: ‘You can’t replace the eye and artistic direction. AI can replace some technical elements, but it can’t think for us.’ This distinction between technical ability and artistic vision is fundamental to any approach involving AI. But what is more important? The creative process or the final work delivered? ‘In my opinion, as long as the work engages the audience, it is doing its job,’ says the Valais-based artist.
In general, Samy Abou El Ainin sees AI as a partner rather than a competitor. This position opens up new perspectives for contemporary artists. By embracing these technologies while firmly maintaining their creative authority, they can explore new territories without losing the very essence of their artistic approach.
Interview conducted on 13 May 2025 in Monthey during the PRISM Conference
