Traditional v.s. Digital: What are the differences?

Types of Art Today

There's infinite types of art in the world. From things like clay sculptures, abstract paintings, to even physical shows; art is everywhere. But there are two big mediums that stick out the most, and have the biggest effects. Traditional Art Versus Digital art, and how do they work?

Traditional Art’s Creative History And Uses

The first instances of traditional art are traced back to the prehistoric era, specifically the Paleolithic period, around 40,000 years ago (~40,000–4,000 B.C.). The earliest artifacts come from the Paleolithic era or the Old Stone Age, in the form of rock carvings, engravings, and sculptures.

From then onward, traditional art has transformed and evolved. New mediums like watercolor, gouache, acrylic, clay, and oil pastels are very prominent mediums in today's art world. Millions of different types of traditional art are made, and everyone has their own style. It gives a unique look for everyone.

Digitals Art’s Insights And Current Uses

The term “Digital Art” was first introduced around 1980, when Harold Cohen along with fellow computer engineers, developed a robotic system called AARON. Which was considered an early form of painting software. While digital art's roots can be traced back to the 1950s with artists like Ben Laposky using oscilloscopes, the widespread recognition of digital art as a distinct art form began in the 1980s.

Nowadays, Digital art platforms like Procreate or IBISpaint are very common for artists today. The new and constantly improving tools help artists better their skills at the craft that is digital art. Giving new meaning to how digital art started, allowing artists to have their own unique piece with different tools and styles of digital art. 

How They Compare; And What To Acknowledge

Please know that there is no true say as to which is better, both Traditional and Digital artists have different viewpoints. To some, traditional art is harder, lacking things like an “Undo Button”, but to others, Digital art is hard as you have to get used to the tools and how they operate. This is all to say, art is unique to all, and whether you use traditional or digital is neither here nor there. Everyone has a medium they favor, and that's okay. Just encourage all types of art, for you may never know if your art goes the same path one day!

Lovingly and dearly,

Isabella X Hernandez