67 - Using AI as a Creative Assistant for Authors with Tanya Hales from AI Art for Authors

In this episode of Brave New Bookshelf, hosts Steph Pajonas and Danica Favorite are joined by Tanya Hales, a classically trained illustrator and the visionary founder of the AI Art for Authors Facebook group. Tanya shares her fascinating journey of integrating generative AI into her professional workflow, illustrating how tools like Midjourney and ChatGPT can act as a powerful "art assistant" for world-building, "photo bashing" book covers, and managing complex creative projects like her Animal Magica series. The discussion explores the emotional landscape of being an artist in the age of AI, drawing thought-provoking parallels between today’s technological shifts and the historical backlash faced by the Impressionist movement. From using AI to support neurodivergent brainstorming to leveraging it for successful Kickstarter campaigns, Tanya offers an inspiring look at how human taste and technology combine to create the new avant-garde of storytelling. Visit our website https://bravenewbookshelf.com to view the full episode notes, links and apps mentioned in the episode, and the full transcript.