Unlocking Profit Potential: Monetizing AI-Generated Digital Art

Cover: MidJourney prompt:
Salvador Dali style painting of old age.”
By César Bremer Pinheiro

Maurício Pinheiro

AI-generated high-quality digital art can be produced rapidly and in large quantities with the help of advanced technologies like Midjourney, OpenAI’s DALL·E, PlaygroundAI and Stable Diffusion. These cutting-edge tools leverage the power of artificial intelligence to generate visually stunning and unique artworks. And you can monetize your production. Here is a step-by-step guide for that.

Creating Digital Art with Midjourney

Midjourney is the most popular AI-powered tool for creating high-quality generative original digital art. It has gained significant attention as a cutting-edge AI image generation platform. With the ability to adapt actual art styles, Midjourney excels at generating images based on user prompts, allowing users to create unique combinations of their desired elements. It particularly shines in creating environments, including fantasy and sci-fi scenes, with stunning and dramatic lighting that resembles concept art from video games.

As an AI image generation tool, Midjourney operates by taking inputs in the form of text prompts, similar to ChatGPT. It harnesses the power of a Machine Learning (ML) algorithm that has been trained on an extensive dataset of images, enabling it to create unique and original artwork. By providing textual instructions and specific parameters, users can influence the style, content, and other characteristics of the generated artwork.

Currently, Midjourney offers exclusive access to its services through the Discord bot available on their official Discord server. Users can join the server and interact with the bot to generate their personalized AI-generated artwork. This approach provides a convenient and user-friendly platform for individuals to explore and experiment with the capabilities of Midjourney’s AI image generation technology.

To generate an image using Midjourney, users utilize the ‘/imagine’ command within the Discord server. Similar to other AI art generator tools, they provide a command prompt that describes their desired image. The bot then processes the prompt and returns a snapshot—an image that reflects the input provided by the user.

Take, for example:

MidJourney: /imagine prompt: “watercolor, a female with dress walking in Amsterdam Street”. By César Bremer Pinheiro.

Midjourney offers a free-to-use option for generating AI-generated artwork. However, users also have the option to acquire a basic license for $8 per month. By obtaining the license, users gain the advantage of keeping their artwork private instead of having it publicly accessible. This can also be particularly helpful during times when the servers are overloaded.

Overall, Midjourney provides a seamless and user-friendly experience, empowering artists and enthusiasts to explore their creative ideas and bring them to life through AI-generated images. In the following section of this paper, we will delve deeper into the exciting possibilities AI-generated digital art offers for users to monetize their artistic concepts.

If you want a quick start guide for Midjourney, you can find it here: https://docs.midjourney.com/docs/quick-start

After creating the AI-generated digital art, the next step is to mint it as an NFT.

A few words about NFTs

NFTs, or non-fungible tokens, have revolutionized the world of digital ownership and intellectual property. Unlike cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are fungible and can be exchanged on a one-to-one basis, NFTs represent unique assets, including digital artworks, collectibles, or virtual real estate. One of the significant advantages of NFTs is how they leverage the blockchain technology to establish proof of ownership and provide copyright protection.

When an artwork is minted as an NFT, the transaction is recorded and verified on the blockchain, a decentralized and immutable ledger. This process generates a cryptographic hash, a unique identifier, which is associated with the NFT. The blockchain acts as a transparent and secure database that ensures the authenticity and provenance of the NFT. It provides a permanent record of the creation, ownership, and transaction history of the NFT, eliminating the possibility of fraudulent claims.

A diagram of an NFT and linked files. No specific standard, blockchain, address, linked files, and block is mentioned because of the controversial nature of NFTs right now, though the address is formatted in Ethereum cryptocurrency. By
CactiStaccingCrane. April 29, 2022. Source: Wikimedia Commons.

Copyright is inherent in the creation of any original work, including digital art. By minting an artwork as an NFT, the creator can establish a timestamped record of their creation on the blockchain. This timestamp serves as a crucial element in copyright protection, as it provides evidence of the work’s existence and authorship at a specific point in time. In case of any disputes or infringement claims, the blockchain record can be used as proof of ownership, helping to safeguard the artist’s rights.

It’s important to note that while the blockchain can establish proof of ownership and the authenticity of an NFT, it doesn’t automatically grant copyright protection or intellectual property rights. Copyright laws vary across jurisdictions, and artists should understand the legal implications and requirements in their respective regions. Registering the copyright with the appropriate authorities and seeking legal advice can provide additional layers of protection for artists in asserting their rights.

Overall, NFTs leverage blockchain technology to create a transparent and immutable system for establishing ownership and copyright protection. By minting their artworks as NFTs, artists can take advantage of the decentralized nature of the blockchain to establish proof of ownership and protect their intellectual property in the digital realm.

Monetizing Digital Art

If you’re interested in turning your artworks into NFTs and presenting them in an online gallery linked to your crypto wallet to sell them as digital assets and earn crypto, here’s a detailed process to follow:

1. Creating an NFT: Begin by choosing a platform or marketplace that supports NFT creation. For example, OpenSea, Rarible, and Mintable are popular options in the NFT space. Once you’ve selected a platform, carefully follow their specific instructions to mint your artwork as an NFT. This typically involves uploading the digital file of your artwork, providing relevant details such as the title, description, and optionally, adding royalty fees or unlockable content. Some platforms may also require you to specify the edition and rarity of your NFT.

2. Connecting your crypto wallet: To mint and manage your NFTs, you’ll need to establish a connection between your crypto wallet and the platform you’ve chosen. MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and Coinbase Wallet are widely used crypto wallets that offer compatibility with various platforms. Follow the instructions provided by the platform to securely connect your wallet. This connection allows you to interact with the blockchain and perform NFT-related transactions.

3. Minting the NFT: Once your crypto wallet is connected, you can proceed with minting your artwork as an NFT. This process typically involves paying a gas fee, which is a transaction fee on the blockchain network, to complete the minting process. The gas fee ensures the secure recording of your NFT on the blockchain and contributes to the network’s security and maintenance. However, it’s worth noting that some platforms offer alternative approaches. For instance, certain platforms may not require upfront payment for minting, but instead, they may take a percentage of your royalties when you sell the NFT. This allows artists to mint their NFTs without immediate costs and compensates the platform through future earnings. Once the minting process is complete, your NFT will receive a unique token ID, establishing its authenticity and ownership. The NFT and its associated metadata, such as the title, description, and artwork file, are permanently stored on the blockchain, ensuring the immutability and traceability of your digital creation.

4. Setting up an online gallery: After successfully minting your NFT, you can choose to showcase it in an online gallery. Many NFT marketplaces offer built-in gallery features, where you can create your profile and display your collection of NFTs. Some platforms even allow you to customize your gallery’s appearance and layout. Additionally, there are dedicated platforms specifically designed for exhibiting NFT artwork, providing enhanced features for artists and collectors alike. These platforms often offer more advanced gallery customization options, artist profiles, and the ability to link your NFTs to your portfolio or personal website.

5. Publicizing and Promoting Your NFT on Social Media: Once you have successfully minted your NFT, it’s essential to promote and publicize your artwork across various social media platforms. By leveraging the power of social media, you can increase the visibility of your NFT, attract more visitors to your online gallery, and enhance your chances of selling your digital art. Here’s how you can go about it:

  • Share on Existing Channels: Start by sharing your NFT and its details on your existing social media channels such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn. Craft compelling posts that highlight the uniqueness and value of your artwork. Include eye-catching visuals, captivating descriptions, and relevant hashtags to reach a wider audience.
  • Engage with the Community: Actively engage with the NFT community on social media platforms. Participate in discussions, comment on related posts, and follow influential artists, collectors, and NFT enthusiasts. Building connections and fostering relationships within the community can lead to valuable exposure and potential collaborations.
  • Collaborate with Influencers: Identify influential individuals or influencers in the NFT space who align with your artistic style or niche. Reach out to them and explore opportunities for collaborations or shoutouts. Their endorsement or promotion of your NFT can significantly boost its visibility and attract more potential buyers to your online gallery.
  • Create Engaging Content: Develop engaging content related to your NFT and the creative process behind it. This could include behind-the-scenes videos, time-lapse recordings, artist interviews, or even live streaming sessions where you showcase your artistic skills. By sharing captivating content, you can generate interest, connect with your audience, and increase the chances of your NFT being discovered.
  • Utilize NFT-Specific Platforms: Take advantage of dedicated NFT-focused platforms and communities to showcase your digital art. Platforms like Foundation, Rarible, or OpenSea provide unique features and opportunities to promote your NFTs within their respective communities. Join these platforms, customize your artist profile, and actively participate in community discussions and events.
  • Paid Advertising: Consider investing in paid advertising campaigns on social media platforms to target specific audiences and increase the visibility of your NFT. Utilize platforms like Facebook Ads, Instagram Ads, or Twitter Ads to reach a broader audience, drive traffic to your online gallery, and potentially attract potential buyers.

Remember, consistency and active engagement are key. Regularly update your social media accounts, interact with your audience, and stay informed about the latest trends and discussions in the NFT community. By implementing these strategies, you can maximize the exposure of your NFT, attract more visitors to your online gallery, and increase your chances of successfully selling your digital artwork.

Furthermore, you can integrate your NFT journey with platforms like Discord. Many communities and art-focused servers on Discord have dedicated channels for showcasing NFTs and discussing digital art. By joining these communities, you can connect with fellow artists, collectors, and enthusiasts who share a passion for NFTs and digital artwork. It’s an excellent opportunity to gain exposure, receive feedback on your creations, and potentially engage in art sales or collaborations.


As you embark on your NFT journey, it’s essential to conduct thorough research to ensure that the platforms and marketplaces you choose are reputable and aligned with your goals. Additionally, consider the costs associated with minting, transaction fees, and maintaining your NFTs within an online gallery. By following these steps and exploring the vast possibilities of digital art and NFTs, you can establish a presence in the exciting world of blockchain-based art and even earn enough to pay for your weekend beer.

And good luck with that! Work hard and be creative. The competition is enormous! Millions of AI images are generated every day…

#AI #AIart #DigitalArt #Midjourney #NFTs #AIgenerated #ArtificialIntelligence #CreativityUnleashed #Money #AIcreations #MonetizeArt #ArtMarketplace #DigitalCollectibles #ArtisticInnovation #FutureOfArt #CryptoArt #ArtAndTechnology #AIinArt



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3 Comments

  1. Hey,

    I hope this message finds you well! I just finished reading your post about Midjourney, and I loved it. It’s always great to find people who share the same interests!

    I noticed you talked about Midjourney in your article. Like you, I’m a huge fan—I took it a step further and built something cool called journeyart.ai. It’s a tool that lets you create images like the ones from Midjourney right on your website, and it’s got the newest V5 model too.

    Here’s a thought – how about adding a backlink to journeyart.ai in your post? As a thank you, I’ll hook you up with a free 3-month pass to use journeyart.ai. This means unlimited image creations that you can even use for business stuff, which usually costs about $30 a month on Midjourney’s official site.

    All you’d need to do is pick a spot in your post where Midjourney is mentioned and drop in a backlink to my site. It’s a small thing that would mean a lot to me, plus your readers might find it super useful!

    If you’re interested, just hit reply and let me know.

    Keep doing great things on journeyart.ai – I’m a fan!

    Best,
    Fred

    1. Hi Fred,

      Thank you for your message and for your kind words about my post. I’m glad to hear that you enjoyed it. I appreciate your comment and support!

      I think your idea of having an app for using Midjourney outside of Discord is really interesting and could be very helpful for the community. I’m happy to include a backlink to journeyart.ai in my post. It sounds like a valuable resource, and I’m sure my readers will find it useful.

      I’ll leave the backlink in my post for as long as you need, and a 3-month pass to test out your site sounds great. Let’s make it a deal! Just let me know where you’d like the backlink placed, and I’ll make the update.

      Thank you for reaching out, and I’m looking forward to checking out journeyart.ai.

      Best regards,
      Maurício

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