How do I become a good painter on the PC?

Question: How do I become a good painter on the PC!?

I am a video game designer with one major flaw!. I am a crappy artist!. I was wondering if anyone knew of a good site that will teach you step by step on how to become a good artist!. I need to become good with Paint, Paint !.NET, and GIMP!. Please if some one could help that would be great! I would also like tips on becoming a good artist on the computer!.Www@QuestionHome@Com

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker:

Hi There!.

My first suggestion is to step away from the computer and start with basic observation exercises and use a pencil or charcoal to try and reproduce something by looking very hard and carefully!.

My suggestion is to go out, find a rock or a leaf and start by really looking at where light catches, where shadows fall and also where and how to recreate the shape realistically!.

These things take a long time to develop and practice is an integral part to your success!.

I often work in Photoshop and reproduce images that are photo realistic!. It takes me on average 7 or 8 hours to really get a good effect!. These things cannot be rushed and require a good observant eye, patience, a knowledge of colour mixing and also a creative use of the brushes in the program!. Look at books or websites on watercolour painting for the idea behind laying down a light base colour!.

For colour mixing usually I start with the lightest colour or the most general and I work everything up using the layers palette!. Don't forget to use your layers in Gimp or whatever program you are using!. I recommend Gimp as opposed to Paint because Gimp has a lot more flexibility given that it is a more complex program!.

I hope this helps!Www@QuestionHome@Com