How to get it into digital art

ital art is a big leap from traditional art and if you're a traditional artist, who is likely unfamiliar with this new form of art, then it may seem a bit daunting. I am going to share how I got into digital art with zero experience and tell you how you can do the same too.

Hi I'm Daniella and I go by Nel or Nel_Kasa on the social media space. During the lockdown, I was looking for a way to bring my ideas to life. Traditional art was an option, but it is quite expensive having to purchase sketchbooks and markers and pencils and all those fancy art supplies. I needed something that I could get my hands on easily and that was when I stumbled upon the world of digital art. I saw videos on YouTube of how to draw your phone and I watched them, becoming more and more intrigued.

I'll cut the long talk and go straight to the things you need to get into digital art. Consider it your checklist.

1. Have a device you plan to do digital art on : This could be your smartphone, an Android tablet, your iPad, your laptop, your PC. Whatever it is, as long as it has a screen and can respond to touch or a stylus pen. The thing with using a laptop or PC is that you need a drawing tablet except you can draw with your mouse, which is a skill I'm not sure many beginner artists have in them. Some good drawing tablet brands are Huion, XPpen, Gaomon, etc. Personally, I used and still use my phone and my finger. At some point I did get a stylus and I will get one again later on.

2. Have an art program that you can make art on: This is very essential because obviously you're not going to be drawing in your tiktok app. You are definitely going to need a drawing program to make art on. You might need to experiment with a few to see the one you really like, but there are a few free and paid options. Some good art apps I know are Ibispaint x, Procreate, Clipstudio paint, Mediabang, etc.

3. Watch tutorials on YouTube: This is a very essential step that you do not want to skip because many art professionals have shortcuts and tips that would make your life easier with the software of your choice. Plus as a beginner in the world of digital art, you could use any help that you can find.

4. Use references while drawing: Being new to this medium, you're going to struggle with familiarizing yourself with the app interface as well as getting used to this medium. Using references would save you the stress of having to bother with other details of the drawing from memory. Imagine trying to draw hands from your imagination, while trying to remember to keep up with the pen pressure or just remember your keyboard shortcuts. That would be a hassle. Using references saves you a whole lot.

5. Have fun: You want have fun and let go of any urge to be a perfectionist. This is the easiest way to prevent burnout or art block. You need to be easy on yourself as you're just a beginner and you're still learning. Try to focus on drawing things you love while you get yourself used to this new art medium.

Good luck with your art journey.

If you like any of illustrations and you want to commission me, you can email: [email protected]