While some might lament the myriad collection of technical devices to which we can now permanently attach ourselves, the special and unique features of each one can be leveraged by the intuitive ones among us in new and exciting ways. You can now have a touch-sensitive device with the power to run digital imaging programs for the price of a couple month's worth of morning coffees (which some of you should not attempt to give up). Artists at the apex of the scene are increasingly working through iPads or similar pieces of tech gear, like the recently appointed publisher of DC Comics, Jim Lee. You might assume that we just naturally use the mouse to interact with computers because it's the most effective method. Truthfully, it's just one of the easiest and most intuitive methods, but it is not the most elegant possibility. We naturally spend a considerable amount of time using precise finger movements, and we can do it with far more accuracy and ease than larger muscles like the wrist. Lee was able to create moderately detailed roughs for drawings of Catwoman with just the iPad, a drawing program, and a finger. He also provided a demonstration of processing a rough of the Joker's face and performing touch-up and editing, all without a brush or a mouse in his hands.
The ability of touch screens to precisely detect touch has also improved greatly in just the past few years, making the possibility of using brushes specifically designed for touch surfaces a great interface for artists. It's only a matter of time before the next great artists begin creating manifestations of the imagination that could only be done with a digital tool.
Seen any great artwork made on an iPad or want to take a shot at some finger-painting yourself? We would love to see your submissions!
