AI outfit Imaginae Studios aims to bring paintings to life with shortform series

Art Awakens reimagines masterpiece paintings in cinematic form

Fremantle-backed generative AI-focused label Imaginae Studios has announced its inaugural project, shortform series Art Awakens.

Created in collaboration with Spanish AI filmmaker Hilario Abad, it will use the technology to reveal the inner worlds of famous paintings.

Art Awakens reimagines masterpieces spanning five centuries, from Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks to Edvard Munch’s The Scream. Each artwork is transformed into a cinematic moment that invites audiences to step inside the painting’s world.

Further details on the series roll-out and distribution will be announced in the coming months.

Imaginae Studios was launched by RTL Group-owned Fremantle in April last year. The production subsidiary is dedicated to exploring the creative potential of AI across the media and entertainment landscape.

It is led by Andrea Scrosati, Fremantle’s group chief operating officer and CEO for Europe, who championed the creation of the studio as part of the company’s broader commitment to innovation.

Scrosati said: “Art Awakens marks an important first project for the studio. From the outset, our ambition has been to give new creative talent the space to experiment and the freedom to realise bold ideas using incredible AI tools. I believe this series is a perfect demonstration of that in action.

“It shows how generative AI, guided by creative instinct and craft, can unlock new forms of storytelling and create meaningful, culturally resonant content for global audiences.”

James Duffen, CEO of Imaginae Studios, said: “Art Awakens is exactly why Imaginae exists. Generative AI is a new creative language and when applied with taste, craft and cultural sensitivity, it allows us to tell stories that were previously impossible.

“This series isn’t about improving great art; it’s about revealing what was always there. We’re inviting audiences who might never set foot in a gallery to experience these masterpieces in a way that feels intimate and emotional.”