Why Digital Will Never Replace Pencils!

Let me begin by saying that, technology is great! I love it. I think some really good things and really helpful innovations have come from technology. But it WILL NEVER and SHOULD NEVER replace traditional art.

Don't get me wrong, like I said technology is great. After all I work in computer animation, I create CG models, I started a computer animation studio, I love Photoshop, and where would we be without the internet.

(I use the word digital instead of technology because I am referring mainly to digital programs)

But in my opinion, the digital world we now live in is making everyone lazy. Young artists are relying too much on computer programs that make everything easier and faster. I believe that working easier and/or faster will not make you a better artist. What makes you a better artist is how efficiently you are with your work flow. But more importantly, what makes you a great artist is the training and discipline in traditional art techniques. Some may argue that companies want easier and faster. That saves money!!! But like the Project Triangle says: Good. Fast. Cheap. You can only pick two, but you will not have the other.

The ability to correct mistakes quickly in a digital format also makes the young artist inferior to a well trained traditional artist who is able to carry over those techniques into the digital realm. Young artist almost have their left hand glued to the CTRL and Z buttons on the keyboard. The search for perfection in the young artist mind is making everything even, symmetrical, and equal. The truth, and as shocking as it may sound to some, is that perfection is imperfection. (This is part of my problem with Blu-Ray. More on that later)

Many of the digital painting programs, Photoshop, Corel, Sketchbook Pro, and others, are trying to imitate real painting techniques, textures, brushes and so forth. For efficiency, these programs are excellent to use. But the artist who can physically work with real paint, real canvas, real pencils, will excel far beyond the artist who does not practice traditional drawing. There is nothing like the feel of drawing on paper. Your hand and pencil become one. As you draw, paint, sculpt or create with your hands, there is a resistance on the material you work with. It's almost like the paper, canvas, or clay is challenging you to make something. That resistance is akin to physical inspiration. It's hard to get that from a Wacom Tablet or the Cintique.

If a young artist does not understand the basic principles of art, or doesn't even try, there is no computer program on earth that will make you a better artist.

On the right side of this blog, under the links section, there is a list of great artists who have that traditional art background that makes them great! The proof right there. These are the people that will have and will continue to have great careers.

Art inspires technology and technology inspires art. Walt Disney was very adamant to always use art and technology together. I love a quote from Walt Disney when he said, “One foot in the past and one in the future.”

If you are inspiring to become the next concept artist, modeler, animator, or digital artist it's extremely important to have the traditional background as an artist.