Pixel Art Avatar Design: From Basics to Customization
Introduction to Pixel Art and Trait-Based PFPs
A course by Jude Buffum , Pixel artist
About the video: Introduction to Pixel Art and Trait-Based PFPs
Overview
“In this lesson, I will give you a brief history of pixel art, from its origins as the technological basis of early video games, through its rebirth as a nostalgic style used in a variety of industries, including PFPs, or Profile Pictures.”
In this video lesson Jude Buffum addresses the topic: Introduction to Pixel Art and Trait-Based PFPs, which is part of the Domestika online course: Pixel Art Avatar Design: From Basics to Customization. Create your pixel art avatar in Photoshop and make your profile picture unique..
Partial transcription of the video
“Pixel art and video games essentially peaked in the mid 1990s because the generation of consoles that came after that we're beginning to use 3D graphics instead. And can display millions of colors. Here's another example highlighting the evolution of pixel graphics in the Ghost and Goblins games. From the ZX Spectrum, which could display seven colors at once, to the Commodore 64, which could display 16. to the Nintendo Entertainment System, which could display 25, and finally the Super Nintendo, which could display 256. As video game technology continued to evolve exponentially, towards hyp...”
This transcript is automatically generated, so it may contain mistakes.
Course summary for: Pixel Art Avatar Design: From Basics to Customization
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Category
Illustration -
Software
Adobe Photoshop -
Areas
Character Design, Digital Illustration, Pixel Art

Jude Buffum
A course by Jude Buffum
Jude Buffum is a seasoned professional illustrator with over two decades of experience, having collaborated with renowned brands such as BMW, Taco Bell, Sony, and UPS. His expertise lies in the vibrant world of 8-bit pixel art, a style deeply inspired by the classic video games he cherished during his childhood in the 80s. Jude's formal education in Graphic Arts and Design, obtained from Tyler School of Art at Temple University, has been foundational in his journey. He has also enriched the academic realm by teaching Illustration and Design courses at universities like Temple and the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
Passionate about merging traditional and digital techniques, Jude brings a unique perspective to his creative process. His work, often infused with nostalgia and humor, reflects his lifelong fascination with vintage gaming. Beyond the studio, Jude's interests in travel and mixology add layers to his artistic endeavors, providing a well-rounded approach to his craft. His accolades include awards from prestigious organizations such as American Illustration and the Society of Illustrators, underscoring his impact and dedication to the art world. Jude's work not only celebrates the past but also paves the way for future artistic exploration.
- 26 students
- 14 lessons (1h 48m)
- 23 additional resources (10 files)
- Online and at your own pace
- Available on the app
- Audio: English, Spanish
- English · Spanish · Portuguese · German · French · Italian · Polish · Dutch
- Level: Beginner
- Unlimited access forever