#13 - Quim Español

Xavier Cardona is one half of Boldtron, the digital art duo he forms with his brother Daniel, known for blending 3D, CGI, VR, and AI into surreal, organic worlds. In this episode, Xavier traces his move from illustration and 3D into early generative AI experimentation, and shares why he’s more interested in bending reality than recreating it. From starting ideas on paper and building hybrid AI workflows to his belief that “the idea is the new currency,” Xavier explores how artists can use new technology to develop a visual language that still feels unmistakably their own.

Caleb Ward is a storyteller, educator, and co-founder of Curious Refuge, one of the first global communities dedicated to AI storytelling and filmmaking. In this episode, Caleb reflects on the early days of AI filmmaking, the viral experiments that sparked a global conversation around generative storytelling, and how Curious Refuge grew into a hub for thousands of creatives exploring new tools. From teaching filmmakers how to navigate rapidly evolving workflows to building a community centered on curiosity rather than fear, Caleb shares his perspective on the future of storytelling, creativity, and human connection in the age of AI.

Albert Bozesan is a writer, filmmaker, and AI workflow architect at Storybook Studios, working at the intersection of traditional storytelling and generative tools. In this episode, Albert shares how he builds AI-driven production workflows that translate ideas into finished films, emphasizing a “story first, AI second” approach. From projects like The Barrier, Daisy, and Space Vets, he explores how filmmakers can move from concept to execution, why prompting alone isn’t enough, and how embracing creative friction leads to better storytelling. 

Henry Daubrez is a resident filmmaker and creative director at Google Labs, where he helps shape the future of AI-powered storytelling. In this episode, Henry shares his journey from discovering a Lord of the Rings DVD extra as a teen to creating emotionally resonant AI films like Kitsune and Electric Pink. He discusses how surviving cancer shaped his personal project Portraits of Cancer, why style can be more honest than realism, and how he’s helping the next generation of creatives navigate this new era of generative filmmaking.

Curt Cameruci, better known as Flosstradamus, helped pioneer the trap EDM movement, blending hip-hop and electronic beats into festival anthems. But he's more than just a DJ—he’s a tech innovator, building AI tools for musicians and experimenting with new ways to distribute music. In this episode, Curt shares his journey from Chicago’s underground scene to shaping the future of music with AI, voice cloning, and creative tech.

August Kamp is a multidisciplinary artist blending AI, music, and immersive storytelling. From her roots as a Disney actor to becoming one of OpenAI's alpha artists, August treats AI as a creative collaborator rather than just a tool. In this episode, she shares how technology shapes her art, her transition from acting to music, and why she believes the future of creativity is weirder and more wonderful than we expect.

Nikola Todorovic, CEO, filmmaker, and co-founder of Wonder Dynamics, is reshaping visual effects with AI. His company’s tool, Wonder Studio, automates CGI animation and lighting, making high-end VFX accessible to all creators. In this episode, Nikola shares his journey from a film-obsessed kid to a tech innovator, discussing how AI is transforming storytelling and the future of filmmaking.

Jonas Peterson, visual artist and photographer, challenges traditional views of aging and creativity. Known for his breakout series Youth Is Wasted on the Young, Jonas uses AI and fashion to craft striking portraits of older adults, revealing their inner vitality and rebellion. From his roots in advertising and analog photography to exploring generative AI, Jonas redefines storytelling through portraiture. Join us as he shares his process, the emotional impact of his work, and how technology is helping him push the boundaries of art and human connection.

Andrew Reid, VP, Creative at Atlantic Records, blends music and visuals to craft unified artistic visions for top artists. From his scrappy beginnings in Brooklyn's art scene to leveraging AI tools like MidJourney, Andrew shares how he's pushing creative boundaries. Discover his journey, philosophies on world-building, and how AI is transforming storytelling and the creative process.

Quim Español, the visionary creator of Fake is Real, combines AI-generated photography with storytelling to explore the boundaries of authenticity in art. In this episode, Quim shares how he crafts hyper-realistic portraits paired with intricate backstories, using digital tools to elevate underrepresented voices and provoke thought. Discover his unique artistic process, his perspectives on identity in the digital age, and the ethical dilemmas of creating artificial personas that feel undeniably real.