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My name is Adas Vasiliauskas, and I created the globally recognized project Quarantine Portraits. Now, I have taken on a new venture—transforming paradoxical Lithuanian sayings into visual artworks using artificial intelligence.

In my latest project, "Nu, literaliAI", I illustrate everyday Lithuanian idioms literally. The result? Witty, unexpected, and visually striking images that not only bring a smile but also offer a fresh perspective on the Lithuanian language.

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#1 Kabina Makaronus / Hanging Noodles

The meaning behind this saying is: telling lies, sweet-talking.

When “hanging noodles” becomes a literal activity.

In this project, I don’t aim to convey the actual meaning of idioms. On the contrary, I rely on their direct, literal interpretation. For example, the Lithuanian phrase “kabinti makaronus” (which figuratively means “to lie” or “to deceive”) is transformed into a group of women who aren’t lying to anyone—they’re simply hanging boiled spaghetti to dry. Another phrase, “Akis bado” (which means “to reproach” or “to criticize”), is visualized as a character literally stabbing a plate full of eyeballs with pins. These compositions come to life with the help of advanced AI technology, enabling the creation of highly detailed and realistic visualizations.

#2 Silkė Pataluose / Herring Under A Blanket

The meaning behind this saying is: laying very comfortably.

#3 Kačiokas / Kitten Guy

True meaning: a muscular guy, gym bro.

AI as a creative tool, not a replacement.

I see artificial intelligence as a new creative medium rather than a competitor to traditional photography. AI allows us to visualize how idioms would look if understood literally. It’s a kind of visual experiment with language—both amusing and slightly absurd.

While AI offers limitless possibilities for image generation, my real work lies in developing ideas and shaping them into final pieces. The success of Nu, literaliAI proves this—on social media, the project sparks curiosity, with audiences competing to guess which idiom is hidden behind each image.

#4 Viens Prie Vieno / One Next To One

The meaning behind this saying is: an exact match.

#5 Pakrovė Malkų / Charged Firewood

The meaning behind this saying is: gave a beating or scolded someone harshly.

The beauty of the Lithuanian language through a visual lens.

This project is not just about humor; it also has an educational aspect. Many idioms are used automatically in everyday speech without much thought about their origins or meanings. Nu, literaliAI offers a new way to see them—sometimes absurd, sometimes ironic, but always creative.

#6 Akis Bado / Poking The Eyes

The meaning behind this saying is: something obvious or annoying.

#7 Ko Toks Surūgęs? / Why So Sour?

The meaning behind this saying is: why are you in a bad mood?

I wanted to showcase the absurd beauty of our language, and it seems I have found a way to make AI understand Lithuanian humor.

This project is a perfect example of how technology can be more than just a practical tool—it can also be a source of inspiration for artists. By interpreting Lithuanian idioms through AI, we highlight the uniqueness and vividness of the Lithuanian language in an entirely new way.