Melissa, What If
AI Artist | Photographer | Founder of aimuses.ai
Instagram: @whatif.now
Italy
Art Beacon Gallery is thrilled to introduce What If, an artist who seamlessly blends photography, traditional techniques, and AI to craft surreal and thought-provoking works. Guided by the question, “What happens if?”, she explores the delicate balance between life’s joys and sorrows, inviting viewers into a space of deep emotional connection and reflection. Discover the unique journey of an artist who infuses creativity, innovation, and hope into every piece.
Artist Statement
What If : "I’m Melissa, also known as What If, a name born from a question that has always followed me: “What happens if?” This question drives my creative journey, especially in my exploration of AI as a tool for artistic expression. It’s the same curiosity that led me to experiment with AI and continues to shape my path forward. I hold a diploma in photography and screenwriting, and both disciplines play an integral role in my work. Photography has always been a key part of my creative process, just as AI has become in recent years. My artistic approach is deeply rooted in a constant search for aesthetic and conceptual innovation, inspired by romanticism, which I explore in all its nuances, even the most unexpected ones. There’s also a playful aspect to my work, fueled by my enduring sense of childlike wonder. Surrealism, which I first fell in love with during art school, is a recurring theme in my creations, alongside a never-ending pursuit of the perfect image — though I acknowledge that perfection may not exist. Every day, I feel the need to express my thoughts, reinterpret my obsession with eyes, and bring my ambitions to life. Through a combination of traditional techniques and digital tools like AI, I continue to explore new ways of expressing my artistic vision, creating works that blend deep emotions with a sense of wonder and discovery."
What inspired you to start creating art?
What If : "I don’t really know. It feels more like a need—a true necessity to communicate. For me, creating is essential. My luck was attending an art school at the age of 14, where I quickly learned how to manage and channel my creativity. I discovered how to listen to it and let it guide me. Today, my inspiration comes in many forms. Sometimes, it’s the scent of something familiar; other times, it’s the stories of people I meet. Creativity, for me, is a constant dialogue with the world around me."
Her work is a testament to the power of curiosity and innovation, blending traditional and modern techniques to push the boundaries of artistic expression.
What is the core message you want to convey through your work?
What If : "It depends on the moment and the medium I’m working with. My message evolves with the type of art I create, but one thing remains constant: I aim to make the viewer reflect. Through photography, I’ve always sought to reveal the melancholic side of life, the quiet and often hidden aspects of people’s inner worlds. With AI art, I’ve been exploring something more personal—a connection to my memories. These pieces cradle me, evoking a bittersweet nostalgia that reflects the delicate balance of life’s joys and sorrows. Yet, no matter the medium, my work often carries a sense of hope—a reminder that there’s always a light at the end of the tunnel. I believe we all need to hold onto the idea of a happy ending, even when life feels uncertain. My art is my way of whispering this belief to anyone willing to listen."
Melissa’s story highlights how creativity is an innate need, nurtured through life’s experiences and transformed into a dialogue with the world around her.
Who or what is your biggest source of inspiration?
What If : "Stories. I’m deeply inspired by the stories that surround me. I listen intently and observe the twists and turns of life, especially the absurd ones. Life is a tapestry of surreal, funny, strange, and melancholic encounters. These moments—unexpected, fleeting, or deeply emotional—are what fuel my creativity. The absurdity of life, the quiet beauty in its imperfections, and the connections we share with others all hold endless inspiration. What could be more moving and evocative than this? For me, art is a way to capture and reflect these stories, turning them into something that resonates with others."
Her art captures the bittersweet essence of life, balancing melancholia and hope, reminding us of the resilience and beauty in our shared human experiences.
What is the biggest challenge, and how do you overcome it?
What If : "Every day brings a new challenge. For me, the journey hasn’t been easy—I’ve struggled with depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Accepting these parts of myself has been one of the hardest yet most transformative steps I’ve ever taken. Every day, I work on myself, finding ways to navigate the complexities of my mind and emotions. I’ve learned the importance of kindness—not just towards others but also towards myself. It’s a practice, a daily commitment to show myself the same compassion I try to offer the world. I often wrestle with fears, whether they come from my nightmares or shadows of my past. But I’ve realized that those fears don’t define me. I overcome them by focusing on the future. Each day is a small victory, a chance to move forward with purpose and hope. Art has become both my refuge and my weapon, helping me transform my challenges into something meaningful and beautiful. Through it all, I remind myself: progress isn’t linear, but every step forward is worth celebrating."
Her inspiration comes from life’s absurdities and fleeting moments, reflecting her ability to transform everyday stories into profound, evocative creations.
What advice would you give to someone starting out in art?
What If : "Please, be yourself. Show us your flaws, your quirks, and the strange, imperfect side of life—we’re ready to embrace it all. Don’t be afraid to let your true self shine through your work; that’s where the magic happens. But most importantly, let your heart speak. Turn off the noise of your mind—the doubts, the overthinking—and just create. Art is not about perfection; it’s about honesty and connection. Trust your instincts, follow your passions, and let your unique voice shape the world around you."
Melissa’s journey reveals an artist who bravely transforms personal struggles into powerful art, reminding us that vulnerability and perseverance are key to meaningful creation.
It has been a privilege to delve into the artistic universe of What If through her insightful words and evocative creations. Her ability to merge traditional and modern techniques with deep emotional resonance is truly inspiring. Art Beacon Gallery is honored to be part of her journey and eagerly awaits the captivating works she will bring to life in the future.