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May 2023

  • Digital Illustration 101
    Teacher Illustration

    Digital Illustration 101

    What is digital illustration? Digital illustration involves the creation of visual compositions or artwork utilizing digital tools and technology. This artistic field merges conventional artistic methods with digital software and hardware capabilities, generating visually stunning images for diverse purposes. Digital illustration has experienced significant growth over time and is now an integral component of numerous industries such as entertainment, advertising, education, publishing, and design. Specialized software programs like Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, CorelDRAW, and Procreate are used for digital illustration. These platforms equip artists with a wide variety of tools, brushes, and features, enabling them to craft intricate, high-quality visuals. Furthermore, artists can employ hardware devices like drawing tablets and styluses, which simulate the feel of traditional pen and paper. A key advantage of digital illustration is the layer functionality. Layers permit artists to manage and modify separate components of an illustration independently, providing greater control over the final piece. This feature allows illustrators to test various effects, colors, and styles without impacting other parts of the artwork. In addition, digital illustrations are easily adjustable, allowing artists to make modifications and improvements without starting from scratch. Digital illustration is also highly versatile, with artists able to produce a broad spectrum of visual styles, ranging from photorealistic portrayals to abstract or stylized depictions. This adaptability enables digital illustrators to tailor their work to various contexts and objectives. Additionally, digital files can be effortlessly shared, resized, and replicated, making digital illustration a fitting choice for collaborative endeavors and commercial use. Beyond these benefits, digital illustration presents infinite possibilities for artistic exploration. Artists can experiment with diverse techniques and media, fusing traditional art elements with digital software's distinct capabilities. For instance, illustrators can integrate hand-drawn elements with digital painting, vector graphics, or even 3D modeling to produce unique, hybrid compositions. While digital illustration boasts numerous advantages, it has also been criticized for distancing artists from the physical experience of traditional art forms. Some argue that digital tools can result in a loss of spontaneity and authenticity in the artwork. However, others maintain that the medium's adaptability and flexibility open up new avenues for creative expression and innovation. In summary, digital illustration represents an ever-evolving artistic field that blends traditional and contemporary art techniques. By harnessing digital tools and technology, artists can produce captivating visual representations for various industries and purposes. As this domain continues to expand and adapt, digital illustration will undoubtedly maintain its prominence and allure as a medium for artistic expression. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Discover this amazing Domestika course: Procreate for Beginners: Digital Illustration 101 ------------------------------------------------------------------

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  • The art of sketching
    Teacher Illustration

    The art of sketching

    Sketching is a fundamental artistic technique that involves the creation of quick, informal, and simplified drawings to capture the essence, form, and structure of a subject or idea. It serves as a visual language for artists to explore, communicate, and refine their thoughts and concepts. Sketching can be executed using various media, including but not limited to pencils, pens, charcoal, pastels, and digital tools. The process of sketching often prioritizes the expression of ideas and emotions over the pursuit of realism and detail. By focusing on the essential elements of a subject, such as its shape, proportion, and movement, artists can better understand and convey the underlying structure and rhythm of their subject matter. As a result, sketching serves as an invaluable tool for developing observational skills, fostering creativity, and enhancing visual communication abilities. Sketches can take on a wide variety of forms, from simple line drawings and rough thumbnail sketches to more elaborate and refined renderings. They can be used for multiple purposes, such as brainstorming, planning a more complex artwork, practicing technique, or simply enjoying the act of drawing for personal expression and relaxation.

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  • The 8 Most Used Illustration Styles in the World
    Teacher Illustration

    The 8 Most Used Illustration Styles in the World

    These are the 8 most used illustration styles in the world ➤ 1. Minimalist Illustration ➤ 2. Big and Bold illustrations ➤ 3. 3D illustration ➤ 4. Typography illustration ➤ 5. Retro illustration ➤ 6. Geometric illustration ➤ 7. Caricatures ➤ 8. Comics Minimalist Illustration: This style is characterized by the use of simple shapes, clean lines, and limited color palettes to convey a message or an idea in a straightforward and elegant way. The focus is on essentials and the absence of unnecessary details. Big and Bold Illustrations: This style is characterized by large, striking imagery that commands attention and makes a bold statement. The use of bright colors, thick lines, and dramatic compositions creates a powerful visual impact. 3D Illustration: This style uses computer graphics to create illustrations with a three-dimensional look and feel. 3D illustrations can be photorealistic or stylized, and are often used in product visualization, architectural renderings, and video games. Typography Illustration: This style combines typography (text) with illustrations to create a visual representation of a message. The text and illustrations can be integrated in a variety of ways to create a cohesive design that conveys information effectively. Retro Illustration: This style is inspired by the design trends of past decades, such as the 1950s, 1960s, or 1970s. It often features bright colors, bold graphics, and playful illustrations that evoke a nostalgic feel. Geometric Illustration: This style is characterized by the use of geometric shapes and clean lines to create illustrations. The focus is on form and structure, and the use of color is often minimal. Caricatures: This style involves exaggerated or distorted images of people, animals, or objects to create a humorous or satirical effect. Caricatures are often used in political cartoons, editorial illustrations, and personal gifts. Comics: This style involves the use of illustrations and text to tell a story or convey a message in a sequential format. Comics can range from simple cartoons to complex graphic novels and can be humorous, serious, or a combination of both.

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  • The art of drawing manga
    Teacher Illustration

    The art of drawing manga

    Drawing manga scenes is a complex process, but the end result is always worth it. Clear steps when creating a manga scene is something that you will need in order to have an organized process. This 5 steps method will help you to master any manga scene. Step 1: Script and Storyboarding The first step in drawing a manga scene is to have a clear understanding of the script and the story. This will help you to determine what kind of scene you are drawing and what kind of emotions and actions you need to convey. Take notes on the script and then create a storyboard, which is a series of rough sketches that outline the key elements and actions of the scene. This helps to visualize the scene and make changes if necessary before you start drawing the final illustration. Step 2: Character Design and Sketching Once you have a clear understanding of the scene, start by sketching out the characters and their poses. This is a crucial step in manga illustration as the characters are the main focus of the story and need to be drawn with great care and attention to detail. Make sure to capture the unique features and expressions of each character to help bring them to life on the page. Step 3: Background Design After you have finished sketching the characters, start to work on the background. The background is an important part of the scene and can help to set the mood and atmosphere. Start by sketching out the basic shapes and then adding details such as buildings, trees, and other elements to create a fully realized environment. Step 4: Inking Once you are happy with the sketches, start the inking process. This involves tracing over the pencil sketches with a fine-tipped pen to create clean, crisp lines. This step is important as the inked lines will form the final outline of the illustration and will determine the overall look and feel of the scene. Step 5: Coloring The final step in the manga illustration process is coloring. This is where the scene comes to life and where the characters and background are given depth and dimension. Use a combination of traditional mediums such as watercolor and colored pencils, as well as digital tools such as Adobe Photoshop to add color to the scene.

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April 2023

  • Gouache Paint 101 for Artists
    Teacher Illustration

    Gouache Paint 101 for Artists

    We have prepared the ultimate "Gouache Paint FAQ for Artists" with everything you want to know about Gouache. What is gouache paint? Gouache is a type of water-based paint that is used for artistic applications such as illustration, commercial art, and design work. It is made from pigments mixed with a binding agent and a water-soluble binder, typically gum arabic, which gives it a creamy consistency. Unlike transparent watercolors, gouache is opaque, allowing for greater coverage and more vibrant color. It dries to a matte finish and is known for its versatility, mixability, and quick drying time. How is gouache paint different from watercolor? Gouache and watercolor are both water-based paints, but there are some key differences between the two: Opacity: The most notable difference between gouache and watercolor is their opacity. Gouache is an opaque paint, meaning that it covers the surface completely and can be painted over previously applied layers. Watercolor, on the other hand, is a transparent paint, allowing the surface underneath to show through. Consistency: Gouache has a thicker consistency than watercolor, which makes it easier to control the application of the paint and to create solid blocks of color. Watercolor is more fluid, making it better suited for creating delicate washes and subtle blends of color. Vibrant color: Gouache is known for its rich, vibrant color, as the paint is highly pigmented. Watercolor, on the other hand, is more subdued in color, creating a softer, more delicate look. Drying time: Gouache dries relatively quickly, while watercolor takes longer to dry. This can affect the way that artists work with the paints, as it may impact the ability to make changes or corrections to the painting. Finish: Gouache dries to a matte finish, while watercolor dries to a glossier finish. This can affect the final look of the painting, as well as the way that light interacts with the surface. These differences make gouache and watercolor two distinct types of paint, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Both can be used to create beautiful works of art, but the choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the desired effect.

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  • What is Amigurumi?
    Teacher Craft

    What is Amigurumi?

    Amigurumi is a Japanese art form that involves crocheting or knitting small, stuffed, yarn creatures or objects. The term "amigurumi" comes from the combination of the Japanese words "ami" (meaning knitted or crocheted) and "nuigurumi" (meaning stuffed doll). Amigurumi creations can range from cute animals and characters to inanimate objects like food or plants. They are typically made with a small crochet hook or knitting needles and use simple stitches to create the desired shapes. These projects are often filled with polyester fiberfill or other stuffing material to give them a soft and plush feel. The art of amigurumi has gained popularity around the world, with a growing community of crafters who create, share, and sell their unique designs. Patterns can be found in books, online, or shared through social media and crafting websites.

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  • Cinematic Documentary 101: What makes a documentary cinematic?
    Teacher Film & Video

    Cinematic Documentary 101: What makes a documentary cinematic?

    A cinematic documentary is a genre of filmmaking that combines elements of traditional documentary storytelling with cinematic techniques often found in fictional narrative films. These techniques may include stylized cinematography, compelling sound design, dramatic music, creative editing, and visual effects. The purpose of a cinematic documentary is to present factual information and real-life stories in a more visually engaging and emotionally evocative manner, thereby enhancing the viewer's experience and connection to the subject matter.

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  • All you need to know about NFTs and how to convert your artwork into one
    Teacher Design

    All you need to know about NFTs and how to convert your artwork into one

    Non-fungible tokens (NFTs) have revolutionized the digital art world by providing a unique and secure way to buy, sell, and trade digital assets. In contrast to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, which are fungible and interchangeable, NFTs represent a distinct digital item, such as art, music, videos, or collectibles. Built on blockchain technology, NFTs offer a secure and transparent way to verify ownership and provenance, ensuring that creators receive proper compensation for their work.

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  • What are eco-resins and how can be used to make beautiful design objects?
    Teacher Design

    What are eco-resins and how can be used to make beautiful design objects?

    Eco-resins, also known as bio-resins or green resins, are a type of bio-based thermosetting plastic derived from renewable resources such as plant-derived oils, starches, and natural fibers. They have gained popularity in recent years due to their lower environmental impact and reduced carbon footprint compared to traditional petroleum-based resins. Here's an overview of eco-resins and their properties: Composition: The most common eco-resins are made from plant-derived monomers, such as epoxidized soybean oil, linseed oil, and castor oil. Other bio-based components can include cellulose, natural fibers (e.g., hemp, flax, jute), and biopolymers (e.g., polylactic acid or PLA). Some eco-resins may also contain a blend of bio-based and petroleum-based components to improve their performance characteristics. Environmental Benefits: Lower Carbon Footprint: Eco-resins have a lower carbon footprint than petroleum-based resins, as they are derived from renewable resources. This results in reduced greenhouse gas emissions and a positive impact on climate change Reduced Dependency on Fossil Fuels: Using eco-resins helps decrease reliance on finite fossil fuels, which are not only environmentally damaging but also becoming scarcer and more expensive. Biodegradable and Compostable: Some eco-resins are biodegradable or compostable, making them a more sustainable option in the long run. These properties help reduce the volume of waste that ends up in landfills.

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  • Learn from the Experts: 5 Renowned Designers to Teach You at Domestika.
    Teacher Design

    Learn from the Experts: 5 Renowned Designers to Teach You at Domestika.

    If you are passionate about design, you have probably heard of some of the most influential designers in the world. On Domestika, you can access the courses taught by some of them, who share their experience and knowledge with all of us. We introduce you to 5 renowned designers and the courses they teach on Domestika so you can learn from the best. From editorial design to corporate identity and typography, these courses will give you the tools to improve your skills and take your projects to the next level, so get ready to discover new techniques and concepts from the greats of design!

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  • Illustrating Children's Books: The Art of Crafting Engaging Visual Narratives
    Teacher Illustration

    Illustrating Children's Books: The Art of Crafting Engaging Visual Narratives

    Illustrating children's books is an art form that requires a unique blend of creativity, storytelling, and visual communication. An engaging visual narrative can capture a child's imagination, help them learn, and inspire a lifelong love of reading. In this article, we will explore the process of creating captivating illustrations for children's books, from developing characters and environments to effectively collaborating with authors and publishers. ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Discover this amazing list of courses to learn how to illustrate children's books ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Understanding the target audience The first step in illustrating children's books is understanding the target audience. Children's books can range from early picture books for toddlers to more complex stories for older kids. Consider the age group, their cognitive development, and interests when creating illustrations. This will help ensure that the artwork is age-appropriate, visually appealing, and complements the story's themes and messages.

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  • Photoengraving with Photopolymer Etching: A Revolution in Printmaking
    Teacher Photography

    Photoengraving with Photopolymer Etching: A Revolution in Printmaking

    Photopolymer etching is a process that uses light-sensitive photopolymer plates to create a printable image. The process begins by selecting a design or photograph and converting it into a digital image. This digital image is then transferred onto a transparent film called a photomask. The photomask is placed over a photopolymer plate coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. Understanding Photoengraving with Photopolymer Etching Photopolymer etching is a process that uses light-sensitive photopolymer plates to create a printable image. The process begins by selecting a design or photograph and converting it into a digital image. This digital image is then transferred onto a transparent film called a photomask. The photomask is placed over a photopolymer plate, which is coated with a light-sensitive emulsion. When the plate is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, the emulsion hardens in areas where the light penetrates the photomask. The unexposed areas, protected by the opaque parts of the photomask, remain soft and can be washed away with water or a developer solution. This process results in a textured plate with raised areas that can hold ink, making it suitable for printing.

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  • 5 Types of Writing Styles Plus Examples
    Teacher Writing

    5 Types of Writing Styles Plus Examples

    Discover different writing styles to level up your communication and captivate your audience through words Your writing style says a lot about you as a creative. Depending on the one you opt for, it also has the power to inspire powerful emotions and actions in your readers. From persuasive to narrative and expository, we take a look at five of the most common forms of writing, along with how you can put them into practice to reach your creative goals. You don’t need to be an experienced writer to apply these methods. Below, you’ll find courses taught by leading professionals that are designed to help you to express yourself from scratch. 1. Creative writing In theory, creative writing applies to all the styles on this list but, for Shaun Levin, it refers to writing about topics you’re passionate about. He teaches creative writing in colleges, schools, and art galleries alongside publishing works like Alone with a Man in a Room, Seven Sweet Things, and Snapshots of The Boy. Shaun shares practical exercises you can do to enhance your creative writing in his course, Creative Writing for Beginners: Bringing Your Story to Life. Explore ideation, perspective, narrative styles, materials, observation, and beyond to sharpen your skills as a writer and bring your interest to life on the page.

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  • Fantasy Creatures to Inspire Your Character Illustrations
    Teacher Illustration

    Fantasy Creatures to Inspire Your Character Illustrations

    Download these fairy-tale-inspired drawings and take your character illustrations to the next level Character illustration is a versatile medium that allows artists of all disciplines to express their inner creativity and bring fantasy worlds to life. No matter your tools of choice, with just a few simple lines and a splash of color, you can create artwork filled with personality that people can really connect with. Influenced by myths and fairytales, illustrator Sveta Dorosheva (@sveta_dorosheva) specializes in drawing narrative art and characters for both magazines and brands. As part of her online course on illustrating with pen and ink, she shares three pages of the enchanting creatures she has designed to help you imagine your own. Download these fantasy sketches and get inspired for your next illustration.

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  • Copywriting for Social Media: Crafting Effective and Engaging Content
    Teacher Marketing

    Copywriting for Social Media: Crafting Effective and Engaging Content

    Are you ready to delight your social media audience with an exceptional copy? In the digital age, social media has become an essential platform for businesses and individuals to communicate their message and connect with their target audience. Copywriting, the art of writing persuasive and compelling content, plays a crucial role in crafting effective social media messages. We will walk you step by step on how to excel in copywriting for social media.

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  • Top 10 Best Creative writing tips for beginners
    Teacher Writing

    Top 10 Best Creative writing tips for beginners

    Starting out in creative writing can be a daunting task, with many writers struggling to know where to begin and how to improve their skills. However, there are plenty of exercises that can help you develop your writing abilities and bring your ideas to life on the page. With practice and persistence, you can turn your thoughts and imagination into beautiful works of art through creative writing.

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  • 6 Content Creation Tips for Building a Loyal Brand Community
    Teacher Writing

    6 Content Creation Tips for Building a Loyal Brand Community

    Follow these steps to create stand-out content that reaches your target audience and converts them into loyal consumers Content creation is an essential part of any brand’s marketing strategy. From blog posts and social media to video content and web pages, this content can take many forms and allows a company to reach new potential customers as well as build mutually-beneficial relationships with existing ones. But, content created without a purpose is far less likely to achieve those results. That’s where a content strategy comes in. These six steps are designed to help you create intentionally to convert potential customers into paying clients.

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  • What is Atmospheric Illustration?
    Teacher Illustration

    What is Atmospheric Illustration?

    Learn what atmospheric illustration is along with the key things you need to consider when creating immersive artwork of your own Atmospheric illustrations are artworks that focus on creating a specific mood or ambiance through the use of visual elements such as color, lighting, texture, and composition. These illustrations evoke emotions and, as the name suggests, convey a sense of atmosphere, often immersing the viewer in the depicted scene or environment. Artists use various techniques to achieve this effect, from playing with contrasts between light and shadow to utilizing color palettes that evoke specific feelings. Atmospheric illustrations can be found in various forms of media, including book covers, concept art for movies and video games, editorial illustrations, and fine art, always with the same intention—to evoke a connection between the viewer and the piece of work. ------------------------------------------------------------------ Discover this amazing Domestika course: Atmospheric Painting in Procreate: From Concept to Color ------------------------------------------------------------------

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March 2023

  • 5 Tools for Visual Thinking
    Marketing

    5 Tools for Visual Thinking

    Discover innovative resources designed to help you look at challenges from a different perspective and come up with creative solutions Visual thinking is a way of conceptualizing that allows you to put your thoughts into images. In doing so, you can make complex problems simpler, and explore innovative solutions by thinking outside of the box and learning to see things from a different perspective. Hermen Lutje Berenbroek (@hermen) is a design strategist who specializes in visual thinking through his brand Artifizer. For the past decade, Hermen has worked with global clients in Europe, the United States, Africa, China, and the Middle East, leading workshops with executives to explore complex challenges, engage stakeholders, and develop clear communication. As part of his online course, Hermen shares 5 tools that are designed to help you get started with visual thinking.

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  • Free Download: How to Make Pom-Poms Easily
    Teacher Craft

    Free Download: How to Make Pom-Poms Easily

    Learn to make wool pom-poms step by step with this free PDF from designer Caro Bello who specializes in punch needle embroidery. Wool pom-poms are a popular project for crafters for a number of reasons; they’re easy to make and can be used in multiple ways, from decorating your home to adding a special touch to your accessories. There are many different techniques to make them, all of which are accessible to knitters and creators of any level. They can also be created using affordable materials you probably already have at home. In this free PDF, designer, and connoisseur of the punch needle embroidery technique Caro Bello (@carobello) teaches you how to make wool pom-poms step by step. Her art is the result of experimentation with fabrics, yarns, and multiple different techniques, and pom-poms are a perfect complement to her designs. Already have an idea of how you want to use your pom-poms? Let's get started!

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  • How to Write a Book: 7 Basic Steps
    Teacher Writing

    How to Write a Book: 7 Basic Steps

    Discover 7 tips on how to write a book, overcome writer's block, and finish your manuscript You've made the decision to start writing a book. Congratulations! Writing a book is one of the most exciting adventures you can undertake: it not only allows you to express your ideas creatively but also gives you the opportunity to share your experiences with the world. However, the writing process can be daunting, especially if you are new to it. It's easy to feel insecure and unable to start (and finish) a project of this magnitude. Therefore, in this article, we share some basic tips on organizing your time, overcoming writer's block, and getting to work. Grab a pencil and paper, a computer, a typewriter, or your preferred writing tool and start taking notes!

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