Exploring Digital Art and Graphic Design

In each of the tabs listed below this introductory page, you are able to find my strongest compositions organized to their school year and month. The "Pre-LIT Pieces" page holds more information on how I became enthralled in the topic of digital art, while the "Summer Work 2018" tab shows the experience I had and initial pieces I created with my new graphics tablet.

My most desired goal for this passion project is to create a journey that reveals technical improvement over a long period of time, as well as showcases my desire to branch out to others via free or commissioned designs.

Artwork Software Information

Below, you are able to locate the official websites, find pricing, and discover the main features of each of the applications that are used to create the artworks displayed on this website.

Paint Tool SAI

• This program can be initially downloaded as a free trial that lasts 31 days, however, it must eventually be unlocked with a software license that typically costs around $50. I always use SAI for inking and shading, all because of its brush stabilizer features that allow for the creation of smooth, clean strokes. Additionally, this program has multiple layer blending modes that have the ability to elevate the look of special effects and objects. Despite coming with a moderate price tag, Paint Tool SAI has been completely worth it.

Adobe Photoshop

• The newest version of this application costs $21 per month as part of a subscription (if purchased alone) of the Adobe Creative Cloud. I typically use Photoshop for creating basic environmental elements, such as tree bark, soil, grass, water, and rocks. Not only does Photoshop have the largest selection of tools among these four programs, but it also allows for the direct import of other brushes and gradients, giving you many opportunities for customization. Even though I am using the 2010 version (CS5) of Photoshop, its simple GUI and organization features work wonders when doing a piece with a ton of layers.

Krita

• This program is completely free of charge. Being of open source, one of Krita's most prominent features is the ability to import and create intricate resource packs, similar to the customization options discussed for Adobe Photoshop. In my artworks, I typically use Krita for sketching, along with creating the details of the background (sky, clouds, stars, or leaves). If you are just beginning to experiment with digital art, this is an application I highly recommend downloading.

Autodesk Sketchbook

• Recently being a $5 per month subscription, Autodesk Sketchbook is now free of charge. Similar to Paint Tool SAI, this program has an array of layer blending modes, however, these are slightly more vibrant and useful for light source effects. Sketchbook also provides a digitized library with all of the colors that Copic markers have, a wonderful addition for those also practice traditional art with these brush pens. I always finish my compositions in Autodesk Sketchbook, adding final touches with its realistic brushes.