In this module, students will create artwork through progressive study and the application of traditional skills using digital painting software. Students are introduced to the core digital painting software tools and workflows used in concept art that will allow them to render forms, light, colour and materials as well as learning how to critically evaluate and reflect on their personal workflows.


Topics covered are:



Art and design principles.

Fundamental painting theory.

Painting master studies.

Digital techniques for line work, form, and value.

Painting colour and light.

Digital painting tool workflows and tricks.

Brush economy and edge control.

Analysing and rendering materials.

Research skills.

Assessment Component 1 – (Learning outcomes 1 and 2)

Digital Art Portfolio weighted at 80% consisting of:

You will create a portfolio of digital artwork showing the development and execution of digital painting skills which includes

A series of completed observational drawings and painterly studies completed in digital media.

A clear consideration and application of basic art and design principles applied to concept briefs.

Evidence of supporting study tasks completed outside of class.


Assessment Component 2 – (Learning outcomes 3 and 4)

Reflective Digital Logbook weighted at 20% consisting of:

You will complete a digital logbook in the form of Digital Academy Forum thread which documents and discusses your creative journey and personal progression in skill development. The logbook will culminate with critical analysis and reflective posts covering creative processes used throughout the portfolio, successes and opportunities for development.

2 x 3hr Lecture/Tutorial

1. Articulate digital painting fundamentals through observational and master studies, and the practical workflow required to produce a digital painting.

2. Apply basic art and design principles in the production of an online portfolio of development work and original concepts.

3. Demonstrate understanding of painting theory, research and critical thinking skills throughout the reflective logbook.

4. Identify and Reflect upon the successes and failures of personal practical workflows in terms of visual structure, the principles of art and audience interpretation.

PC

Digital painting software.

Wacom tablets

Digital Academy Forum

Digital Academy Upload System

Data Projection Resource

Robertson, S. and Bertling, T. (2014) How to render¿: the fundamentals of light, shadow and reflectivity. Culver City, CA: Design Studio Press. (978-1933492964)


Gurney, J. (2010) Color and light¿: a guide for the realist painter. Kansas, Mo: Andrews McMeel. (978-0740797712)


Gurney, J. (2009) Imaginative realism¿: how to paint what doesn’t exist. Kansas City: Andrews McMeel Pub.(9780740785504)


Cher Threinen-Pendarvis (2004), The Photoshop and Painter Artist Tablet Book: Creative Techniques in Digital Painting, Peachpit Pressy, Dover Publications


3Dtotal Publishing (2021) Artists’ Master Series: Colour and Light. 3DTotal Publishing. (978-1912843411).


3Dtotal Publishing (2020) Beginner’s Guide to Digital Painting in Photoshop. 3DTotal Publishing. (978-1909414945).


3DTotal (2009) Digital Painting Techniques: Practical Techniques of Digital Art Masters:01. Routledge. (978-0240521749).

This module will help you to build a solid theoretical foundation to expand upon and refine your digital painting skills and intuition, allowing you to visually communicate and present concepts in a more compelling way.