Wednesday, January 21, 2026 at 1:30 PM
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Visual art trends over the next 12 months

Looking back at a year filled with concern over AI algorithms and images defined by an unnatural slickness, might we expect the same in 2026. Will we see a continuation of this trend, or will we see the pendulum swing resulting in a rebellion in creativity?

We can only hope. Not to say there isn’t room for creative design using AI, but perhaps it is time to get a hold of the reins, allowing our curiosity to expand and our imaginations to rule.

Leaders in the field of visual arts from around the world, and particularly a dozen or so curators organizing museum exhibits here in the United States, are reporting artists are embracing human imperfections rather than the perfection generated by AI algorithms.

No longer feeling the pressure to make flawless images, the forecast is for creatives to make the real magic occur utilizing unbridled imagination.

It is predicted that visual authenticity will become the New Year’s creative paradox, with a handful of major trends — starting with tactile textures to dramatic storytelling — helping creators bend AI allowing for their own human instincts yet still creating with impact.

A better understanding of AI and an artist’s informed control should allow for discovery, experimentation, and assist in bringing ideas to life.

This is not to say that we will move away from technology, but will instead become more comfortable in managing our knowledge of AI, allowing us to imagine further limits of human creativity.

Hill Country Council for the Arts: Join. Volunteer. Donate. Refer to our website often, like us on Facebook. follow us on Instagram.

Arts Council calendar

Begin your 2026 art journey at HCCArts “Art AfterHours,” with the tactile art of Quilling, set for 7-9 p.m. Jan. 27 at The Classroom at The AgriCultural Museum and Arts Center.

Learn the Renaissance art of paper filigree. The Renaissance art of paper manipulation once adorned books, cabinets and purses. In the class, we will focus on modern applications constructing a design that will complement any wall, card or jewelry piece.

We will turn strips of paper into sculptural designs. Explore the terms and tools of this historic art form and build your three-dimensional art form skills. Roll, loop, twist and curl your way to a wonderful experience.

To register, call Paula at 210-269-8349.


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