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My Journey into No-Code Development: Scratching My Own Itch and Building a Portfolio

I started exploring no-code development tools out of necessity—a need to expand my portfolio while tackling real-world problems I face daily. The challenge I set for myself? Create at least three apps that solve practical issues. It’s been a fascinating journey of learning, iteration, and discovery. Here’s how it started and where it’s going.

The First App: AICalCount

In November 2024, I began a weight loss journey in preparation for total knee replacement surgery scheduled for March 12, 2025. With this goal in mind, I decided my first app would be a calorie-counting tool, optimized for mobile use. Weight loss is a deeply personal journey for me, and I wanted to create something that would make tracking calories easier, faster, and smarter.

Inspired by YouTube videos mentioning calAI.app, I started researching the competition. I found only two apps leveraging AI to simplify calorie tracking for users. This gap motivated me to build my own solution. Version 1 of AICalCount is now live: https://vitamai-ithinkmedia.replit.app/. It’s functional, mobile-optimized, and an exciting first step. I’ll be sharing an in-depth review of the other apps I explored and what I learned during the creation of AICalCount in an upcoming article.

The Second App: ArtSpark

Next, I turned my attention to a tool for artists, ArtSpark. This app aims to inspire creators and help them ignite their artistic ideas. ArtSpark has gone through several iterations, but it’s not quite ready to share as a functional app. While I was making progress, I decided to shift gears and tackle a project that felt more tangible and closer to my heart.

The Dream App: Artsy Gallery

Artsy Gallery (a working title) is the app I’ve dreamed about creating for years. It will be a feature-rich tool allowing me to showcase and share my catalog of images with the community. It’s designed to be intuitive, beautiful, and practical, serving both artists and art enthusiasts. Building this app is a labor of love, and I’m excited to begin testing it soon. Once it’s ready, I’ll launch it right here on vlane.ART!

Why These Apps Matter

These apps are more than projects; they are stepping stones to building a new career and life after losing my love on March 9, 2024. Creating tools that solve real problems and sharing my journey along the way has been therapeutic and motivating. Through these projects, I’ve learned new skills, challenged myself, and started building a portfolio of SaaS and web apps that I hope will support me in this next chapter of life.

What’s Next?

I’ll be reviewing both AICalCount and other AI-driven calorie-counting apps in detail, sharing insights on what worked, what didn’t, and what sets AICalCount apart. I’ll also keep you updated on ArtSpark and Artsy Gallery as they progress. These stories are just the beginning, and I’m ready to share more—stories filled with suspense, heroes, cannabis, and intrigue.

Stay tuned for updates, app launches, and a deeper dive into the world of no-code development. It’s been a journey of learning, creating, and rediscovering myself, and I’m excited to take you along for the ride.


Feature Comparison: ARTify vs. Dream App Vision

This comparison evaluates the features implemented in ARTify against the envisioned functionalities of the Dream App, helping identify what’s aligned, what needs improvement, and what remains to be developed.


Image Processing & Storage

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
Multi-resolution image processing ✔ Small, Medium, Large, XLarge, Ultra resolutions Same, with batch processing and dynamic resizing. Already implemented. Confirm if resolutions match desired sizes.
Automatic image resizing ✔ Fully implemented Same Matches your vision.
Color palette extraction ✔ Integrated Same Ensure extraction is accurate and appealing to users.
Batch upload support ✔ Available Essential for bulk image management Satisfies bulk upload requirement.
Organized file storage system ✔ Implemented Same Ensure storage scales as the library grows.

AI & Metadata

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
AI-powered image analysis ✔ OpenAI-powered Advanced AI for tagging, descriptions, categorization Matches vision but ensure metadata accuracy and style relevance.
Automatic metadata generation ✔ Automated metadata creation Same Meets expectations.
Smart tagging system ✔ Integrated Same Ensure tags enhance search functionality.
Art style classification ✔ Implemented Needed for better categorization and Pro-tier enhancements Review if style classifications align with user goals (e.g., artistic movements).
Automated descriptions ✔ Available Same Matches vision; confirm description quality.

Gallery Features

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
Responsive image grid layout ✔ Fully functional Same No changes needed.
Advanced image modal ✔ Implemented with detailed view Popup with title, tags, Pro/free options, color palette display Confirm modal integrates Pro/free download functionality.
Tag-based search ✔ Integrated Same Ensure search is intuitive.
Color palette visualization ✔ Included Same Matches expectations; consider color-based filtering.
View count tracking ✔ Functional Same Meets analytics needs.
Image category management ✔ Admin tool available Needed for organized navigation Matches expectations; ensure flexibility for growth.

User Management

Feature ARTify Dream  Notes for Improvement
User registration/authentication ✔ Implemented Same Fully functional.
Role-based access control ✔ Public, member, admin roles Same Matches vision perfectly.
Admin dashboard ✔ Admin tools integrated Same Sufficient for now; consider custom options.
Password reset ✔ Fully functional Same Meets expectations.
Session management ✔ Secure session handling Same Matches vision.

Pro Subscription System

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
Monthly/yearly billing ✔ Stripe integration complete Same Ensure billing flexibility and ease of use.
Pro-exclusive high-res downloads ✔ Integrated Pro users should access high-res, watermark-free images Matches vision; ensure clear upselling for Pro features.
Subscription tracking ✔ Available Needed to manage user tiers effectively Fully implemented.

Admin Features

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
Image management ✔ Batch processing, visibility controls, metadata editing Same Could add advanced tools like duplicate detection.
User management ✔ Admin-level user controls Needed for managing user accounts Matches expectations.
Analytics dashboard ✔ Basic analytics available Advanced user behavior analytics Add granular data like Pro user activity and trends.

Technical Features

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
PostgreSQL integration ✔ Integrated Same Matches vision; ensure scalability.
Secure file handling ✔ Available Same Fully implemented.
API endpoints ✔ Exposed for image operations Needed for frontend-backend integration Matches vision.
Logging system ✔ Included Needed for error tracking/debugging Ensure logs capture critical data.

UI/UX

Feature ARTify Dream App Vision Notes for Improvement
Responsive design ✔ Functional Same Fully implemented; optimize further for mobile.
Image modal with zoom ✔ Included Same Matches vision.
Download resolution selector ✔ Included Needed for Pro/free distinctions Ensure clear resolution labels and upsell messaging.
Loading states/progress ✔ Functional Needed for large galleries/uploads Matches expectations.

Next Steps

This comprehensive analysis shows that ARTify aligns well with the Dream App vision, but a few refinements and additional features could elevate it further. Prioritizing scalability, advanced analytics, and Pro features will ensure your app continues to meet user needs and your long-term goals.

Stay tuned as this dream evolves!

Creating Holiday Vibes Through Art

Creating Holiday Vibes Through Art: Inspiring Connections Across Seasons

The holidays are a time to connect, celebrate, and reflect, making them the perfect opportunity for artists to share work that evokes universal feelings of warmth, joy, and hope. With the launch of Vitruveo’s Art Cards on Xibit, you can promote your art by choosing pieces that resonate with the essence of the holiday season, even if they aren’t directly tied to a specific holiday.


What Defines the Holiday Spirit?

Holiday vibes are often about feelings more than imagery. Consider these key emotional and atmospheric themes to guide your selections:

  1. Warmth: Cozy, inviting tones that feel like a hug for the soul.
  2. Joy: Bright, uplifting visuals that evoke happiness and celebration.
  3. Connection: Art that captures the togetherness of community, family, and friends.
  4. Reflection: Thoughtful, introspective works that inspire hope and renewal.
  5. Wonder: Pieces that spark a sense of magic or awe.

Suggestions for Evoking Holiday Vibes

Here are some ideas for work that fits into the broader feelings of the holiday season:

1. Ethereal Light and Glow

  • Pieces that emphasize light as a metaphor for hope, warmth, or renewal.
  • Abstract works featuring glowing orbs, shimmering textures, or radiating energy.

Vibe: The comforting glow of candles, stars, or fairy lights.


2. Nature-Inspired Serenity

  • Landscapes with frosty details, soft snowfall, or a golden sunset.
  • Gentle floral motifs or abstract interpretations of seasonal change.

Vibe: The peace of a quiet winter morning or the renewal of a fresh start.


3. Vibrant Celebrations

  • Dynamic, colorful pieces that suggest movement or excitement.
  • Abstract works bursting with confetti-like patterns or fireworks-inspired designs.

Vibe: The joy of celebration, whether it’s a party, a family gathering, or the New Year’s countdown.


4. Whimsy and Playfulness

  • Works with a playful, fun-loving energy: think abstract shapes, vibrant colors, or imaginative characters.
  • Art that makes people smile, evoking childlike wonder or holiday humor.

Vibe: The magic of laughter and the carefree moments of the season.


5. Elegant Minimalism

  • Simple, clean compositions that convey sophistication and calm.
  • Neutral or monochromatic palettes accented with metallics, blues, or soft whites.

Vibe: Quiet elegance, like a peaceful snowfall or a crisp winter night.


Tips for Selecting Work for Vitruveo Art Cards

  1. Highlight Versatility: Choose pieces that evoke universal feelings but can also resonate during the holiday season.
  2. Think Emotional Impact: What story or emotion does your piece convey? Consider how it aligns with the holiday mood.
  3. Align with Your Style: Select works that are authentic to you but still carry a sense of celebration, reflection, or wonder.

Examples of Art for Holiday Vibes

  • A glowing abstract piece symbolizing the warmth of human connection.
  • A serene winter landscape with soft hues and minimal details.
  • A colorful, chaotic abstract that embodies the excitement of celebration.
  • A whimsical character or scene that brings a smile to viewers’ faces.

With Vitruveo’s Art Cards, you have the chance to share your creativity with the world in a way that aligns with the beauty and complexity of the holiday spirit. Let your art create moments of connection and wonder, inspiring viewers to explore more of your unique vision.

HUG: A NEW Platform for Artists & Collectors to Connect

In a world where creativity knows no bounds, HUG emerges as a trailblazer, redefining the way artists and collectors connect, collaborate, and celebrate art. Imagine a platform that combines the best features of Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram, infused with gamification tools and a genuine commitment to inclusivity. That’s HUG, where art and technology embrace in a warm and welcoming environment.

Founded by the visionary Randi Zuckerberg and empowered by a team of experts like Debbie Soon and Alex Cavoulacos, HUG is more than a social media platform—it’s a thriving community of creative minds, passionately engaging in the Web3 ecosystem.

Why HUG? A Hub for Creativity and Growth

  • Social Curation: Connect with like-minded artists, explore new avenues of creativity, and showcase your work to a wider audience. HUG’s social curation is all about making meaningful connections and sharing your art with those who truly appreciate it.
  • Community and Education: Whether you’re an established artist or just starting your journey, HUG offers a plethora of educational resources, community support, and expert guidance to help you grow.
  • Inclusiverse: A term coined by HUG itself, Inclusiverse stands for the platform’s dedication to building a diverse and inclusive Web3 ecosystem. Here, every voice matters, and every artist gets a chance to shine.
  • Gamification Tools: Engage with art like never before! HUG’s gamification tools add a fun and interactive layer to your experience, allowing you to explore and enjoy art in new and exciting ways.

Making the Most of HUG: Tips for New Users

  1. Complete Your Profile: A well-crafted profile can make you stand out. Share your story, showcase your work, and let people know what inspires you.
  2. Engage Actively: Like, comment, share, and collaborate. Engaging with others helps you build a strong network and keeps you in the loop with the latest trends and opportunities.
  3. Explore and Learn: Utilize HUG’s educational resources to enhance your skills and knowledge. The platform offers various courses, information, and reviews to help you thrive in your artistic journey.
  4. Embrace the Gamification: Participate in games, challenges, and interactive features that not only add fun to your experience but also open doors to new opportunities and connections.
  5. Stay Informed and Involved: Join HUG’s Twitter and Discord channels to stay updated and be part of the broader conversation.

HUG is not just another social media platform; it’s a tool in your artistic marketing toolbox. It’s a place where your art finds a home, your voice finds an audience, and your creativity finds endless possibilities. So why wait? Join HUG today and embrace a world where art lives and breathes.

Find them on Twitter or join their Discord to be part of the conversation. And remember, in the world of HUG, there are always plenty of hugs to go around! 🎨💼🤗


Referral Link

If you’re an artist or collector looking to join the inclusive world of HUG and connect with a community of like-minded creators, consider signing up using my referral link. You’ll get access to tools, programs, and opportunities tailored for creatives, and I’ll earn points to help me continue my creative journey.

Let’s explore and grow together in this exciting creative hub.