Media are the manual and digital applications used to visually communicate ideas and information. Media can include, but are not limited to: pens, pencils, ink, paint, markers, raster-based applications and vector-based applications.
Pens are a versatile tool used for drawing and writing, and come in various types such as ballpoint, gel and felt-tip. They can be used for sketching, outlining and adding details to illustrations or designs.
Pencils are another popular drawing tool, often used for sketching, shading and creating rough outlines. They come in different grades of hardness, ranging from soft to hard, which affect the darkness and texture of the line.
Ink is a liquid used for drawing and writing, and can be applied with a variety of tools such as pens, brushes, markers and printers. It can create bold, expressive lines and is often used for calligraphy, lettering and graphic design.
Paint can be applied to a variety of surfaces and is available in many different types such as watercolour, acrylic and oil. It can be used to create colourful illustrations and designs, as well as more textured and expressive pieces.
Markers are similar to pens but have a broader, more opaque tip. They are often used for filling in large areas of colour or creating bold, graphic lines and are popular in illustration, graphic design and typography.
Raster-based applications use a grid of pixels to create digital images, such as Adobe Photoshop. They are best for creating detailed images with complex colour blends and shading.
Vector-based applications use mathematical equations to create digital images, such as Adobe Illustrator. They are best for creating clean, precise designs with sharp lines and solid shapes, and can be scaled without losing quality.