We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shauna Jones a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Shauna, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

Learning a new craft can be an exciting and transformative journey, and my journey as an AI artist is no exception. It all started when I came across a remarkable piece of art created by a fellow AI artist and enthusiast, Shawn Harrison. The artwork, titled “Bashenga,” a prequel to Black Panther, captivated me like never before. It sparked a curiosity within me, igniting a desire to explore this fascinating realm and find ways to apply it to my own interests.

Although I wasn’t initially immersed in the world of Sci-Fi, the sheer brilliance of Shawn Harrison’s creation motivated me to dive headfirst into learning the craft. Determined to unlock the secrets behind this art form, I dedicated countless hours to studying, experimenting, and honing my skills. I delved into the vast resources available, devouring YouTube videos and TikTok tutorials, absorbing every bit of knowledge I could find.

Every day became a learning experience as I practiced and pushed myself to grow. I stayed committed to staying up-to-date with the latest techniques, technologies, and trends in the AI art community. With each new creation, I pushed the boundaries of my abilities, constantly challenging myself to improve and refine my craft.

The process of learning has been a continuous adventure, filled with moments of triumph and the occasional hurdle to overcome. But through dedication and a hunger for knowledge, I have gradually developed my own style and technique in AI art.

As I continue to learn and grow, I remain inspired by the transformative power of AI art. It allows me to express my unique perspective, celebrate diversity, and bring forth new narratives that empower and uplift others.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am Shauna, a Financial Services Professional turned AI Artist/Evangelist, dedicated to empowering marginalized communities through AI and trailblazing the future of technology and representation. My journey into this industry began when I discovered the immense potential of AI to drive positive change and decided to merge my love for photography and visual storytelling with this transformative technology.

As an AI Evangelist, I provide a range of products and services that leverage AI to create innovative solutions and empower marginalized communities. One of my creative works includes AI-generated portraits, where I use this new art form to challenge conventional beauty standards and showcase diverse representations of black people, particularly black women. Through these portrayals, I aim to change the way black women see themselves, offering a fresh perspective and empowering them to embrace their uniqueness.

My work solves the problem of underrepresentation and lack of diversity in the tech industry. By promoting inclusivity and empowering marginalized communities through AI, I help bridge the gap and create opportunities for underrepresented individuals to thrive in this rapidly evolving field.

I am most proud of the impact I have made in uplifting marginalized communities through AI and the power of positive portrayal. I am also proud of the collaborations and partnerships I have forged, working with like-minded individuals and organizations to create a more inclusive and equitable future.

For potential clients, followers, and fans, I want them to know that I am deeply passionate about using AI as a force for good. I am dedicated to making a positive impact, not only in the tech industry but also in society as a whole. Whether through AI-generated art, thought leadership, or collaborative initiatives, I am committed to driving change, fostering inclusivity, and trailblazing new paths in technology and representation.

Have you ever had to pivot?

A few months ago, I found myself at a crossroads in my professional journey. I had been working in the financial services industry for 20+ years, building a successful career based on my expertise in underwriting, portfolio management, and risk management. However, I felt a growing sense of curiosity and passion for the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to drive positive change.

Recognizing this inner calling, I decided to embark on a journey of exploration and growth. I began immersing myself in the world of AI, attending conferences, workshops, and networking events to expand my knowledge and understanding. It was during this time that I discovered my true passion for AI-driven innovation and its potential to empower marginalized communities.

We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?

I completely understand the hesitation and reluctance to venture into new social media platforms. It’s amazing how a small step can lead to incredible journeys.

Just a few months ago, I was firmly rooted in my “Facebook Girl” persona, comfortably sharing posts with a close circle of friends. However, a friend of mine encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and embrace the wider world of social media. So, on a magical Christmas Eve, I decided to give myself a special gift – an Instagram account.

Little did I know that this seemingly small decision would unlock a world of possibilities. As I started sharing my work and thoughts on Instagram, something incredible happened. People began to resonate with my message and vision. One follower turned into ten, and ten turned into hundreds. And now, with gratitude in my heart, I have a wonderful community of 23,000 followers who support and uplift me on this journey.

Through social media, I have discovered the power of connection and the ability to make a positive impact on the lives of others. It’s not just about numbers, but the meaningful interactions and the opportunity to uplift and inspire. Every post I share is a chance to touch someone’s life, to spark a conversation, and to spread positivity in this vast digital landscape.

For those who are just starting to build their social media presence, I offer this advice: take it one post at a time. Embrace the platform that resonates with you and open yourself up to new possibilities. Be authentic, share your unique perspective, and focus on providing value to your audience. It may feel overwhelming at first, but remember that every connection starts with a single interaction.

Believe in the power of your message, and let it guide you as you navigate the world of social media. Share your work, your passions, and your voice. You never know who you may inspire, uplift, or connect with along the way. Embrace the journey, cherish the connections, and enjoy the incredible ride of building a social media presence that reflects who you are and the positive impact you want to make.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: Shauna_BlackLens
• Facebook: Shauna Jones
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunajones/

Image Credits
Shauna Jones