These words no longer seem like something out of science fiction. Technology is rapidly transforming the world, including art. But how does “digital art” differ from traditional painting or sculpture? What forms does it take, and can anyone become part of this new world?

What Is Digital Art?

Digital art refers to any artwork created using digital technologies: computers, cameras, graphic tablets, neural networks, and specialized software. Today, you can see it anywhere, even in games at BetLabel.

An example is a digital painting that an artist creates without a traditional canvas or paints, using a graphic editor or special program instead. These works are stored in electronic formats like image, video, or audio files.

Digital art can also be interactive — for example, modern art museums feature installations that viewers can interact with.

Forms of Digital Art

The main types of digital art include:

• Digital drawing.
• Computer-generated music.
• 3D modeling.
• Animation.
• Virtual and augmented reality.
• Video editing.
• Photography.

When people talk about digital art, they often mean painting and music created with computer technologies. Virtual and augmented reality tools also fall into this category, enabling artists to create interactive installations.

Digital Drawing

In traditional painting, artists use canvases, brushes, pencils, paints, and oils. In the digital world, artists need only three things: a computer, a graphic tablet, and editing software.

The principles of digital painting are no different from traditional techniques. Aspiring digital artists must study the same fundamentals as classic painters: composition, perspective, anatomy, and color theory.

Digital Music

Music creation works similarly to digital drawing. Digital musicians compose music in special programs called sequencers. These programs include pre-recorded sounds of various instruments — string, keyboard, wind, percussion, and more.

Musicians can record any part, from guitar to trombone, on a computer and then combine tracks into a single composition.

Virtual Reality

Digital artists use virtual reality tools when working with 3D models. The process begins in software like Blender, where artists can zoom in, move objects in space, and adjust details without a mouse. Once complete, the model can be printed using a 3D printer.

Installations

Virtual and augmented reality tools are also used to create interactive installations, allowing viewers to engage with the artwork.

Every year, more artists work with virtual reality, and platforms supporting digital artists are expanding. Notable examples include the Ars Electronica Festival and the VR section of the Venice Biennale, Venice Immersive.

How to Get Started with Digital Art: A Beginner’s Guide

Digital art is incredibly diverse, offering something for everyone to express themselves. If you’re considering a new hobby, here’s where to begin:

Step 1: Choose a Direction

What kind of art appeals to you? Maybe you attended art school or learned to play the guitar as a child. Or perhaps you’ve always dreamed of exploring photography. Your previous experiences can provide a foundation for growth in this new field.

Step 2: Learn About the Tools

Research what professionals in your chosen field use. For instance, aspiring digital painters should download Adobe Photoshop and purchase a graphic tablet.

Step 3: Study the Basics

Search for online articles, tutorials, and courses on your chosen subject. Read interviews with experienced artists about their creative journeys. If you’re delving into digital music, begin by learning the basics of music theory — notes, chords, harmony, consonance, and dissonance.

Step 4: Find Like-Minded People

Surrounding yourself with peers who share your interests can help you grow. Look for communities on social media, attend exhibitions, lectures, concerts, and workshops.

Step 5: Master Neural Networks

Neural networks automate routine tasks like finding references and gathering information. For visual artists, AI tools are excellent for creating templates for future works or checking character poses in paintings.

 

Art-focused neural networks, such as MidJourney or Stable Diffusion, are perfect for generating drafts, exploring ideas, and finding unique perspectives. Text-based neural networks like ChatGPT can help answer questions or draft text content.