Blog 1: Image Types and Tools

1.  What is vector art and why is it used widely in both screen and print?

Vector art primarily uses what is called vector graphics. Vector graphics mainly consists of points, lines, curves and shapes, which are based on mathematical formulas. Any art made with vector graphics from software like Adobe Illustrator is considered vector art. Contrast that with raster art or bitmaps, which primarily use pixels. Vector art is widely used in both screen and print due to how scalable it is. Scaling up or down doesn't degrade vector illustrations. Comparing vector illustrations to raster images, scaling up causes pixilation and scaling down and up repeatedly will degrade the image.

2.  What are the benefits of using Adobe Illustrator to create digital images?

The benefits of using software such as Adobe Illustrator to create digital images is that vector art is less demanding than raster images, therefore it would be easier to use on weaker hardware. Adobe Illustrator using vector graphics means that it is also very scalable and won't degrade the image when scaling.

 3.  Briefly explain the purpose of the pen tool, the brush tool, and the pencil tool when creating digital images, and describe when it would be appropriate to use these tools.

• The pen tool creates anchor points that draw a line between them. You also have the ability to create or edit anchor points and the path. For some, this could be more accurate than the pencil and brush tool.

• The pencil tool lets you draw lines freehand, instead of placing anchor points. After you have placed your stroke, it will create anchor points based on what you drew. It can be quite useful for sketching out ideas.

• The paintbrush tool functions pretty much like the pencil tool, but you're able to change the brush definition which gives it more versatility compared to the pencil tool. It can benefit those who would want to make more complex vector images.

4.  Find three (3) examples of vector art that you like. Upload (with referencing) each image and specify:

A.What tools do you think were used to draw each of the artworks.
B. Why do you think these images work well.

Artwork 1

Artist: Cristiano Siqueira

A. Pen Tool, Pencil Tool, Brush Tool

B.  The colour scheme and the flow of the art piece are quite appealing to the eyes.

Artwork 2

Artist: Anna Sumina

A. Pen Tool, Pencil Tool, Brush Tool

B. A simple, yet intricately detailed piece which doesn't need flashy colours.

Artwork 3

Artist: Lee Yong Kyu

A. Pen Tool, Pencil Tool, Brush Tool

B. The style and design of the piece is appealing. The monochromatic tone with the visual element of image gives a nice warm feel.