Modern technology can be an amazing and mind-boggling thing. While technology undoubtedly makes progress as time goes by, the last forty years have brought with it some of the widest strides in technology that it can often feel like it is going too fast. In the case of art, technology brings with it the digital realm, where it is entirely possible to mimic traditional art while maintaining the sense of comfort and convenience that comes with modern tech.
That said, traditional art is an umbrella term for many skills that have been developed over many years. When you consider how young digital art is, it can almost feel like it has no business competing against the rest of the art industry which has experienced various art movements over history. For those looking to pick up art, it can be hard to figure out which foundation for the medium is ideal.
The advantages of traditional art
No matter how good an artist gets with digital art, many people still scoff at the idea that they can make changes however they want to digital art based on its many layers and functions. In the case of traditional art, there are very few that will allow mistakes without consequences. There is a sense of elitism to the case of those that stick to traditional art just for the sake of being stubborn, but there are still plenty of reasons to go with a physical canvas.
For one, it can teach the artist the many foundations of their preferred medium. It is not quite as approachable, but it might prove to be more fulfilling overall.
The advantages of digital art
While a good ol’ fashioned sketchpad might chaff under repeated mistakes, there is no need to worry about making mistakes with digital art. For the most part, people can press ctrl+z (typically the undo function) and try something else. It is extremely convenient, and the use of a quality graphics tablet can make all the difference.
With the right equipment and knowledge of the art program, it is entirely possible to emulate traditional art styles without too much trouble. The list of advantages is practically endless, as modern tech continues to make strides.
The bottom line
There is no right and wrong answer when it comes to traditional vs. digital art. The only questions are personal preference, and what you think would be more fun. While many people might choose digital art due to ease of use, there will still be others that prefer to draw on a physical canvas. No matter the case, the artist is bound to learn as they go.
Last but certainly not least, keep in mind that the two do not have to be mutually exclusive! There is no reason to shut yourself out to traditional art if you chose to focus on the digital side of things. As a matter of fact, taking the time to learn both will serve to make you a far better artist. With enough time and effort, you can excel with both mediums.
Photo Attribution:
1st and featured image from https://pixabay.com/photos/sketch-illusion-art-drawing-himself-4369450/
2nd image from http://foa-flux.net/contemporary-and-traditional-art/
