Creating art using computer programs is becoming more and more popular. It can be pricey to get the top programs in this field, though. For example, Photoshop, the pinacle of art software, can cost well over $300! Yikes!
Never mind that. You can get art programs that rival Photoshop and Corel for free on the internet. No, I'm not talking about pirated software. Shareware is free software that is legal to download and to use as much as you want.
Below you will find my favorite art programs and how to get them.
GIMP
GIMP, or GNU Image Manipulation Program is the paramount of free art software. It rivals Photoshop in its usefulness, believe it or not. The only draw back is that GIMP is somewhat difficult to learn. The good news is that you can also download a users guide at: GIMP User GuideGIMP also has free updates and addons.
Google SketchUp
Yep, it's offical, Google has its finger in everything. Google SketchUp is a great 3D modeling program that helps you create 3D geometry, has real-time shadow casting that lets you see exactly where the sun falls as you model, and you can even select from thousands of pre-drawn components to save time drawing.
PD Pro Digital Painter 3 ... powered by Project Dogwaffle
Amazing art can be created using this program. It is exactly like having a studio full of paints, brushes, and ink, but all free and mess-free! PD Pro Digital Painter 3 is said to be the closest art program to simulate actual painting. The website has fantastic tutorials on making eye-popping art. Don't forget to check out all the other cool stuff for artists at TheBest3d.com.
