Digital Art
Beginner
30 mins
Teacher/Student led
70 points
What you need:
Chromebook/Laptop/PC or iPad/Tablet

Introduction to Digital Art

Embark on a journey to understand digital art. Learn what it is, its history from the 1950s to the present, and how it has revolutionised creativity. Discover how digital art has transformed the way artists create and share their work, opening up new avenues for expression.
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    1 - What is digital art?

    Digital art is when people use computers to create images, animations, and designs. Just like how you can draw a picture with a pencil and paper, you can also create a digital picture using a computer and software made for creating art.

    Digital art can be anything from still images to animations, and it can be made in a variety of styles, like cartoons, abstract art, or even realistic portraits.

    It's a way for people to be creative and express themselves using technology. Just like with traditional art, there is no right or wrong way to make computer art - it's all about your imagination and creativity!


    2 - A brief history

    A brief history of computer art and graphics:

    • 1950s: The earliest forms of computer art were created using mainframe computers and punch cards. These early computer artworks were simple black and white images created using mathematical algorithms.
    • 1960s: The development of computer graphics in the 1960s led to the creation of more advanced images and animations, which were used for scientific and engineering purposes.
    • 1970s: The rise of personal computers in the 1970s allowed for the creation of computer graphics that were accessible to the general public. Software programs like Adobe Illustrator and MacPaint were developed, which allowed artists to create digital graphics and images with a greater level of control.
    • 1980s: The 1980s saw a significant increase in the use of computer graphics in the entertainment industry. Computer-generated special effects were used in movies, and video games with graphics became popular.
    • 1990s: The 1990s was the decade of the Internet and the World Wide Web. Online forums and communities were created, where people could share and showcase their computer artworks. Software programs like Adobe Photoshop became widely used by artists, photographers, and designers.
    • 2000s: The 2000s saw the rise of 3D computer graphics and animation, which were used in video games, movies, and television shows. Digital art became more popular, and new software programs like Blender and Maya were developed for creating 3D graphics.

    Today, computer art and graphics are a major part of our daily lives. From websites to advertisements, from video games to movies, computer graphics are everywhere, and continue to evolve and improve.




    3 - A new avenue for creativity

    Digital art has changed the way artists make and share their creations. Instead of using traditional tools like paint and paper, artists can now use computers and devices like tablets and smartphones. This means they have more ways to be creative and try new things.

    Digital art also makes it easier for artists to show their work to more people. With the help of the internet, artists can share their art with people all over the world, which was not possible before. This opens up new doors for artists to express themselves and get feedback and inspiration from other artists and art lovers. Digital art also lets artists work together on projects, like virtual and augmented reality experiences. All in all, digital art has changed the art world and given artists more ways to be creative.


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