Technology has a way of inserting itself within the brilliant innovations of artisans, no matter what their creative outlet happens to be. The clever and intuitive Wacom Cintiq drawing tablet has been put to use by graphic designers, comic book artists, and others who transform their vision into digital masterpieces. Those who make their living by turning skin into art are rapidly joining the ranks of master craftsman who have incorporated Cintiq technology in unique ways.
Modern Methods
Humans are ingenious at finding ways to make things easier for themselves, and the world of tattooing is no exception. The most basic method that tattoo artists use to step beyond free-form is preparing a sketch beforehand and turning it into a stencil on the human canvas. In one variation, the stencil will be redrawn using markers to replicate the general coloring of the sketch. A more recently developed method is printing the stencil onto paper covered with a special transfer film that activates when placed against the skin and moisture is applied, more commonly known as a "temporary tattoo".
Cin(k)tiq at Work
Wacom recently interviewed tattoo artist Dillon Forte, a geometrical genius who demands that every line of ink is crafted around the lines of the canvas's body. Of course, this makes perfect sense; why use a flat and square digital canvas to represent the actual one? After a thorough examination of the intended area for the tattoo, he creates the sketch using his Cintiq tablet. Next, digital manipulation allows him to tweak the sketch while a projection is placed over the skin, resulting in a final product that is truer to both what he and the canvas want.
Throughout it all, the Cintiq is a "key component" of the digital workflow for Dillon.
Take the Next Step
The possibilities presented by having a digital surface with countless colors and hues means that anyone with enough skill and creativity can find a way to apply digital capabilities to physical objects. Those who pave the way in integrating the two are set to guide humanity towards a place where it's easier than ever to shape the real world as our imaginations perceive it.
