Digital art blends creativity with technology, using computers and software to create stunning visuals. From pixel-based raster graphics to scalable vector images, artists harness digital tools to push boundaries and explore new artistic frontiers.

Algorithms and generative techniques are revolutionizing digital art creation. By defining rules and parameters, artists can use computer programs to generate complex, unique artworks, opening up exciting possibilities for creative expression and innovation.

Fundamental Concepts in Digital Art

Essential terms in digital art

• Digital art encompasses various forms created or presented using digital technologies (computer-generated imagery, digital painting, interactive installations)
• Digital technologies include hardware (computers, tablets, displays) and software (image editors, 3D modeling tools, programming languages) used to create, manipulate, and display digital art
• Pixel is the smallest unit of a digital image arranged in a grid to form a complete image
• Color models are systems for representing and specifying colors in digital art
  • RGB (red, green, blue) is commonly used for digital displays
  • CMYK (cyan, magenta, yellow, black) is used for printing

Raster vs vector graphics

• Raster graphics are images composed of a grid of pixels, each with a specific color value
  • Resolution-dependent: quality degrades when scaled up
  • Suitable for photographs and complex images with gradients and textures (JPEG, PNG, GIF, TIFF)
• Vector graphics are images defined by mathematical equations and geometric primitives (points, lines, curves, shapes)
  • Resolution-independent: can be scaled without loss of quality
  • Ideal for logos, illustrations, and designs with clean lines and shapes (SVG, AI, EPS, PDF)

Resolution and color depth

• Resolution measures the number of pixels in an image, usually expressed as pixels per inch (PPI) or dots per inch (DPI)
  • Higher resolution means more pixels and greater detail
  • Affects image quality, file size, and printability
• Color depth (bit depth) is the number of bits used to represent the color of each pixel
  • Higher color depth allows for a wider range of colors and smoother gradients
  • Common color depths:
    • 8-bit (256 colors)
    • 16-bit (65,536 colors)
    • 24-bit (16.7 million colors)

Generative Art and Algorithms

Algorithms in digital art creation

• Algorithm is a set of instructions or rules that a computer follows to perform a task or solve a problem
  • Used in digital art to create, manipulate, or analyze images, animations, and interactive experiences
• Generative art is created using algorithms and autonomous systems
  • Artist defines the rules and parameters
  • Computer generates the artwork based on those constraints
  • Can produce unique, complex, and unpredictable results
• Procedural generation is the algorithmic creation of content (textures, 3D models, landscapes)
  • Allows for the generation of large amounts of varied content with minimal manual input
• Creative coding involves using programming languages and frameworks to create interactive and generative digital art
  • Popular tools include Processing, p5.js, openFrameworks, and Max/MSP