I don’t claim to be a “Fine Artist,” or a “Master,” maybe I am just a “Hack.” Frankly, I’m not sure who gets to decide those more top level titles. Similarly, when artists describe their own work as “beautiful,” I always wonder—who gets to make that judgment? I prefer to leave that to the viewer. Whether you love or dislike my work, what matters to me is that I’ve put myself out there. With over 8,000 pieces sold and collectors who own five, ten—even more than twenty of my works—something, it seems, is resonating.

It’s taken me 17 years to truly appreciate what it means to be an artist—not just in practice, but in identity. I’ve come to understand what I stand for, what drives me, and what compels me to keep evolving in a world increasingly saturated with artifice. The rise of AI has reshaped the creative landscape in profound ways. While it has made image-making more accessible, it has also introduced new complexities. To me, AI-generated images are simply the next generation of prints—and I have long held a deep disdain for prints. In my view, they dilute the value of true creativity. I try and keep my art affordable for a reason.

Some fear AI will jeopardize artists’ livelihoods. I’ve personally seen my work copied—by companies overseas, by individual artists, even by one business that continues to misuse my name, “Franko,” after seven years. But I don’t harbor resentment. We all draw inspiration from somewhere. Just as I’ve absorbed and reinterpreted the influence of artists before me, others do the same with my work.

Yes, my art has been used to train AI models. And yet, I see the bigger picture. In a world flooded with instant, automated imagery, art created by human hands will only become more precious—more sought after for its authenticity. There’s value in the imperfect brushstroke, in the bold risk of a creative decision, in the emotional journey that shapes every original piece.

My role in society is to keep creating. To keep pushing boundaries. To produce art that allows people to shape their environments—whether they’re seeking serenity, sensuality, fun, or a personal expression of beauty. We’re all different. We all value different things. My hope is that within my work, you find something meaningful—something that helps you build your own dream space.