In recent years, gay XXX AI has taken over the art scene. What does that mean for artists? And how has it impacted visual artists on the ground, making horny, one-of-a-kind art pieces?

We caught up (again) with gay fetish artist Ashish Kumar, better known as Axeish, who spilled all the tea to let me know what this new world is evolving into, and I’m eager to find out.  Let’s get into it!

For those who don’t know you and your art yet, who are you, and what type of art and medium do you work in?

“I’m an erotic artist who’s all about bold, vibrant, and colorful art featuring men in dynamic, sensual poses. 

My style is a mix of folk art, fantasy, and nerdy vibes, and I like to weave in bits of my South Asian roots, too. Mostly, I work with digital tools, but I still love playing around with traditional illustration. 

For me, it’s all about expressing intimacy, connection, and bringing out the energy of gay relationships in a way that feels very personal to me.”

What’s the biggest fetish you would love to explore in your real life or your art but haven’t yet been able to create on canvas or act on?

“Honestly, I’m more than just fetishes, though they’re fun! 

For me, it’s really all about role-playing with fantasy characters- what’s hot is the whole story that plays out in my head before and after. That buildup, the tension, is where the real magic happens. I just wish I was a better storyteller so I could really bring those wild scenarios to life, but hey, I’m working on it!”

So what are your most recent projects that you are currently working on?

“Right now, I’ve got a few exciting things in the works! I’m wrapping up a playing card series that’s all about hot, fantasy-themed characters and art; it’s like bringing color into the bedroom, but in a fun, artsy way. 

I’m also doing a zodiac-themed art project, exploring how signs connect with body, sex, and vibes and in non-binary/poly relationships. Both are shared and updated early on my Patreon page, and some censored versions are on my social media.”

AI and art are conversations everybody has, especially around generative AI; how has this new technology hurt or helped your artistic process?

“AI has made the art world more competitive, especially with all these generative tools popping up. They can spark some cool ideas, but at the same time, they kinda cheapen the time and effort we artists pour into our work. 

It’s like, how do you stand out when anyone can whip up something in seconds? We put in the grind and heart into our creations, and it’s tough when it feels like that gets overlooked.”

What’s your biggest concern about AI and art, and what keeps you optimistic about your art and the future?

“My concern is the loss of trust in authenticity. However, I remain optimistic because AI still lacks the personal touch and emotion that human art brings. At the end of the day, it’s the human connection and creativity that truly resonate with people, and that’s something AI can’t replicate.”

Some of the scenes you create are super hot. Are these inspired by a personal experience?

“I run a lot of stories and scenes in my head, and I want to draw things that can make me and others happy and relatable. A lot of what I create comes from my personal experiences. I often pull inspiration from my hobbies, whether it’s gaming, folklore, or just the colorful world around me. I like to infuse elements of my South Asian background into my art as well.”

Are there new art mediums you want to explore beyond the canvas, or have you started trying?

“I’m all about exploring new ways to showcase my art beyond just prints.

There are so many options available—like shirts, bags, playing cards, and all kinds of merchandise. It’s exciting to think about how my art can be part of people’s everyday lives and how it can be more functional beyond canvas.”

What motivates your latest art pieces? Do you notice a theme different from some of your earlier pieces?

“Yeah, for sure! In the past, I used to stress over making my art super realistic, but now I’m all about capturing expression and making it vibrant and dynamic, just like my true self! I’m really into this new colorful style, and it’s brought me so much joy in the creative process. I’m still experimenting, though, so who knows how my style might evolve next? It’s all about having fun with it!”

Is there one piece you have a “creative block” on and are trying to unlock? If so, what’s the artwork’s theme, and is it something “technically” challenging (i.e. new technique, different medium, etc.)?

“Absolutely! My current playing card set has been a marathon, not a sprint. I’ve tried out four different concepts and styles over the last two years, but the tricky part is sticking to a consistent vibe for all fifty-four cards. 

It’s definitely been a challenge, but I’m super determined to wrap it up by the end of this year. I want to keep the medium really patternized [sic] and abstract while still bringing that erotic flair. It ties into my new art style, so I’m totally motivated to get it done!”

If someone wanted to get their hands on your art and to support your work, what’s the best way to go about it?

“The best way to support my work and check out my erotic art is through my Patreon. There, I offer exclusive content and rewards, including behind-the-scenes glimpses of my creative process and early access to new pieces. I’m also working on launching my print shop and website soon! For updates, you can follow me on social media and join my Discord too.”

Patreon: https://patreon.com/axeishguy

IG: @axeishguy

Twitter/X: @axeish