My creative process is mostly digital. The primairy reason? Digital creation has become a lifeline for me as an artist living with physical limitations. I don’t need both hands, nor do I have to deal with tricky paint caps, palettes, or easels. While there’s certainly a difference between traditional and digital art, I’m still often surprised by how little that difference feels when I’m immersed in the process. For example, you can see this in my video where I create hair textures—it’s not as different as one might think.
It’s essential to understand: for me, only the process is digital. I don’t sell digital files—what people experience is the physical artwork. The method may be digital, but the outcome is real and tangible. Once a piece is finished, I carefully choose the right type of print and paper to bring it to life. Every detail, from texture to finish, is considered. (For more on this, check out my blog on the true beauty of a physical piece.)
Of course, there are moments when I miss the tactile experience of traditional art. But when that happens, I remind myself of the many advantages that come with working digitally.
Digital Creation Frees Me
Working digitally gives me a sense of freedom. I can experiment, try new things, and explore different styles and textures without the fear of making ‘mistakes.’ It offers me a vast array of brushes, types of paint and colors. My creative vision is never limited by the tools I have on hand.
I sometimes compare it to writing with a keyboard versus using a pen. With digital art, there’s no pressure from a blank canvas. I can dive right in, and if something doesn’t work out, I can easily start over. There’s no need to worry about wasting materials. The ability to create, undo, and recreate is a huge advantage. Every brush, pencil, and color I need is instantly available, and I never run out of paint. Plus, I don’t need a large studio or storage for bulky canvases and expensive supplies.
Sharing and Sustainability
Another significant benefit of digital art is the ability to make multiple prints of my work, allowing more people to enjoy it. And while each print is special, digital creation even also offers environmental benefits; exhibitions don’t always require shipping or flying large, physical pieces around the world for example. (It might sound far-fetched, but it is a benefit;)
Creation without Limits
For all these reasons, digital creation is the medium I mostly choose. Whether by necessity or not, it has become an essential part of my artistic practice. Thankfully, it’s also become a vital part of the art world, offering artists new ways to express themselves that were once limited to traditional media. While I still love traditional methods, digital art has given me freedom and possibility that I truly cherish.
It allows me to create without limits.
