I made some bodega cats
AI has me pretty captivated. It has been around for a while, but the way it has woven itself into every corner of our lives in 2023 is something else entirely. Every time I think I have a handle on it, another layer reveals itself. It can be unsettling, with real consequences if things go sideways, but that is exactly why I think it is our responsibility to understand it as deeply as we can.
Lately I have been experimenting with Midjourney, and there is a genuine thrill in conjuring up a random idea and watching it come to life. This time I decided to use something close to my heart as inspiration: my collection of Bodega cat photos. For the uninitiated, Bodega cats are an unofficial New York City mascot, and I have made it a personal mission to photograph every one I encounter. Fifteen years in the city means quite an archive to work with. Midjourney transformed them into something beautiful, with a little direction from me of course.
Also in the mix are a few other love letters to New York: a Bagel and a Schmear, Sidewalk Party, and Feeling Yellow.
For context, here is the Urban Dictionary definition of a Bodega Cat. I will say, I take personal offense to the part about biting. Every Bodega cat I have ever met has been absolutely perfect and completely chill.
Okay bye!
