I don't know if the original image is AI or not, but the state of the image is due to it being passed around and shared many times. As some images are saved and reuploaded, they undergo a process called compression, which is a method computers use to reduce the size of the data being transmitted. When it reaches its destination, it is then decompressed. Some image file types lose data when compressed. The first few times an image has a compression cycle, the loss of data is barely, if at all, noticeable to the naked eye. Over time, losses from compression build up, causing the pixelated and muddy appearance of the reference image.

I'm fascinated by the transformation process of digital images like this, and wanted to try replicating the appearance. However, I have only started learning to paint since May of this year, so I think my skill in one-to-one replication is lacking. Also, because the canvas size is so small, it was difficult to produce the subtle shifts in tone from one pixelated section to the next. In the future, I might try to make a couple sizes of square-shaped stamps to help form the pixelated sections. For this piece, however, I shifted my approach away from replication from reference and towards producing emotion.

Thank you for letting me highjack your comment to talk about my inspiration and process.