21 Jul Duck!
An exploration of gouache with digital enhancements; and a duck who is grateful for his flexible neck.
Is using photoshop to touch up, enhance or alter an artwork… CHEATING?!?!
(Aargh, panic!! Beware the harsh judgement of others!!)
I don’t think it is. There aren’t actually any rules when it comes to creating art, so therefore there are no rules to be broken or “cheated”.
I’m really enjoying using gouache – it’s lovely to use, easy to clean up and is well suited to my lazy nature of taking long breaks, as it can be quickly reactivated on the palette with some water.
It can also be used for washes or more opaque layers, and blends really nicely, once you have practiced the techniques.
Which leads me to my point. Here I have created a piece that I love, but it has areas that I’d like to improve. Gouache can be a little tricky to touch-up, unlike acrylics, so instead of going back in and smooshing everything up a lot, I’ll take a photo of it and use photoshop to help! I’ll smooth some bits out, add a few details and perhaps change the background colour. Winning!
Digital art is awesome. I really admire the artists who have made it their primary tool and create incredible skilful works of art. But for me, I find Procreate and other tools like it to be very overwhelming – there are so many different things you can do… thousands of brushes, textures, techniques and colours – gah!
Like anything, it’s all about learning and practicing of course, but for now, I feel more creative (and less anxious) when working within the limits of the medium that I’m using; and I also really enjoy the tactile process of using paint or pencils.
BUT! Yes, I am absolutely in favour of digitally enhancing a work. Especially if I intend to sell it, as I want to provide the best product possible!
What do you think about digital touch-ups for traditional art?
And hey, who threw that ball at the duck?