For Ta-ku, Creativity is Constant Change

The Journey of Ta-ku: From Music to AI and Beyond

Ta-ku, born Regan Matthews, has always been a person of many talents. He doesn't take too much credit for his success, instead attributing it to a love of experimentation and a strong work ethic. This humility is disarming, but when he speaks about his work, there's an effusiveness that reveals his deep passion. His sincerity creates an emotional connection with his audience, making his art compelling.

Ta-ku’s journey began in the Australian underground hip-hop scene. His career took off in the early 2010s with the release of his EP Songs to Break Up To, which blended hip-hop, electronica, and ambient sounds. This project marked the beginning of his rise as one of the most sought-after producers in the expanding internet music industry.

A Shift in Focus

After becoming frustrated with the music industry, Ta-ku turned to photography, quickly finding success in both personal and commercial work. This led to a series of career moves, including launching his own agency, Pretty Soon, in 2018. He describes himself as someone who "goes hard and fast," a trait that has driven his diverse career path.

This drive to take risks and push boundaries has kept him ahead of the curve, making him an early adopter of artificial intelligence in the creative field. While he doesn’t see himself as an innovator, he adapts to survive. As an Adobe ambassador since 2024, he uses Adobe Firefly, an image editor he considers powerful. He remains cautiously optimistic about how humans and AI can collaborate in creating art, seeing it as a tool that can open new creative possibilities.

Early Inspirations and Creative Process

Ta-ku started making beats at a young age, even while working as a health insurance salesman. He found solace in creating music, which helped him avoid feeling suffocated by his job. His early inspirations included Australian hip-hop artists like Hilltop Hoods and global figures such as J Dilla and Kanye West.

His career has seen several shifts between disciplines, from music to photography to creative direction. He describes these changes as gradual but often sudden, driven by the need to pivot when necessary. For instance, his move from music to photography was fueled by a desire to explore a different form of expression.

Balancing Creativity and Technology

Ta-ku's creative process is defined by momentum and the belief that if something feels right, it should be pursued. He values the act of creating without overthinking, emphasizing the importance of moving forward rather than getting stuck in perfectionism.

Today, he finds inspiration in the new wave of storytellers on the internet. He believes this era of storytelling is crucial, especially as AI becomes more prevalent. It has inspired him to rethink his artistic identity and what he wants to express in the coming years.

Embracing AI in Art

Ta-ku started experimenting with AI tools around four years ago, testing various products to understand their potential. He didn't immediately jump into using them but explored their capabilities to see how they could enhance his work. As a creative director, he used AI to experiment with visual expression and discover new ideas.

He acknowledges the concerns surrounding AI in the art world, particularly the question of legitimacy. However, he believes that human creativity cannot be replaced. He encourages young artists to embrace AI as a tool while still dedicating themselves to mastering their craft.

Using Firefly in His Work

Firefly has become an essential part of Ta-ku’s workflow, especially after its integration into Photoshop. He uses it for image-making, whether manipulating photographs or creating digital images. Firefly allows him to experiment and remix images, bringing new ideas to life. He sees it as a powerful tool that enhances his creative process, enabling him to explore new concepts daily.