Learning Computer Graphics

Creating art in any venue generally involves learning the technical details, but learning how to create art on a computer is even more involved. In addition to becoming familiar the basics of colors, shapes, forms and perspective, the artist must also learn how the graphics program works. Some artists may only work with one program while others use several programs, and this increases the knowledge they must master. All of this takes time, and they must continue to update their knowledge whenever a new version of the program becomes available.

Basic graphics programs depend heavily upon icons to help artists create, and these are often the best ones for beginners to use. Rather than worry about how to click through pages of menus, the artist only has a small collection of icons to understand. They might begin by clicking on a pencil icon to draw their outline, and they can then use the filler to add color. This is how a basic program works, and it takes little time to master it before moving on.

Complex programs used by experienced graphic artists have many different tools, and these help enhance their final product. For those who want to paint on the computer, they will find their program can provide them with brushes of nearly infinite width. Oil paints are preferred by artists because of the endless colors they can create with mixing, and computers offer the same choices. The color palettes offered in graphics programs mimic this artistic need, and the artist can spend hours just choosing the colors they will use.

Not all graphics programs are the same, but most contain the basic elements any advanced artist would use. Everything from pens for ink or line drawings up to touch screens that accept input from tools or fingers is now available, and this has opened a whole new world for artistic expression.