Digital art is an artistic work or practice that uses digital technology as part of the creative or presentation process. Since the 1960s, various names have been used to describe the process, including computer art and multimedia art. Digital art is itself placed under the larger umbrella term new media art.
After some initial resistance, the impact of digital technology has transformed activities such as painting, literature, drawing, sculpture and music/sound art, while new forms, such as net art, digital installation art, and virtual reality, have become recognized artistic practices. More generally the term digital artist is used to describe an artist who makes use of digital technologies in the production of art. In an expanded sense, "digital art" is contemporary art that uses the methods of mass production or digital media.
Lillian Schwartz's Comparison of Leonardo's self portrait and the Mona Lisa based on Schwartz's Mona Leo. An example of a collage of digitally manipulated photographs
The techniques of digital art are used extensively by the mainstream media in advertisements, and by film-makers to produce visual effects. Desktop publishing has had a huge impact on the publishing world, although that is more related to graphic design. Both digital and traditional artists use many sources of electronic information and programs to create their work. Given the parallels between visual and musical arts, it is possible that general acceptance of the value of digital visual art will progress in much the same way as the increased acceptance of electronically produced music over the last three decades.
The biggest problem that arises when you move to digital illustration is preparing your set-up and choosing a device. This article summarizes the main things you need to think of when getting started.
If you’re thinking of starting digital art for the first time, the following questions might have crossed your mind:
“Can I draw with my current computer?”
“Drawing software sounds expensive.”
If you’re worried about this, read below for a summary of all you need to know when getting started.
1. Computer
If you already own a computer, you can continue using it without buying a new one. You can also use a laptop to digitally draw illustrations if it has good enough system requirements. If you find that your computer lags or freezes a lot, you should consider adding more memory or replacing it.
If you go to a shop to purchase a new computer, let the person helping you know that you are looking for a device for art programs and digital drawing so they can help find one that better suits your needs
Memory-wise, although you can draw using only 4 GB memory, I recommend going with 8 GB or more if you want to get the most out of your new device. Many recommend Mac computers for drawing, but you can absolutely draw without any problems on a Windows device. Feel free to choose the operating system you prefer.
2. Illustration software
Digital illustration refers to illustrations drawn using a drawing program or application. Various types of software exist, ranging from freeware to paid professional programs and applications.
Expensive software have advanced features, but that does not necessarily mean it’s easier to draw with (or that they will meet your needs).
It’s best to get some hands-on experience first. Most paid software have a free trial, so you can choose whether or not to purchase something after testing it. Also consider your budget.
3. Pen tablet
Connect this tool to your computer to draw.
You can draw smoother lines with a pen tablet, so if you want to draw a picture on a computer, you should prioritize this tool. You will find several companies that sell pen tablets, but iPAD or Surface tablets are the most popular products.
4. Monitor
You don’t need to purchase a new display if you’re confident with the current one.
However, if you are planning to buy a new monitor, choose a large one because it will reduce the tiredness. 20 inches or more is good!
5. Other
Although this is not a necessary item, if you want to draw the sketch on a paper, you need a scanner. You can convert the sketch into a digital data, open it with software, and ink digitally. You can also import hand drawn textures/colors and use them as illustration materials. If you want to export the illustration, you will need a printer.
There is no need to buy a new mouse or keyboard if you already have one that works properly. Consider buying a new one when you start using a lot of shortcut keys.
