Digital Art for Youths!

     In today’s modern society, new forms of art are being developed through the advances in technology. With that in mind, traditional art is certainly not a dying field but is instead modifying and mixing with the new age and creating altogether a new form of art, known as digital art. 

Digital art can be recognized as having a futuristic, almost life-like appeal to it with its vibrant colours and realistic technique. However that doesn’t mean all digital art looks the same, some artists create works that appear to be made traditionally, as it all depends on style. Digital art is formed using computer or multimedia arts and can create a large variety of artworks. Media arts have been around since the 1960s and are continuing to advance to this day. 

    There are many different ways to create digital arts as this term reflects a variety of art forms. One method of digital art that can be helpful for beginners, is to create a hand drawn image that is then scanned into the computer and edited from there, using software's such as Photoshop. This is a simple way to begin practicing sketching online and understanding the different tools offered as it requires a reference. A more advanced and commonly used digital media tool is the Wacom tablet, used by many artists. This tablet is designed for creating and editing digital art as well as comes along with its own pen. This is a very useful option for photographers, graphic designers, and artists alike. There are many different programs designed for digital art although they each are geared towards different specialties; some for sketching, some for editing, etc., as well as varying pricing. Adobe offers many programs that are narrowed down to specialties. Nowadays, there are plenty of free tutorials available online through services such as YouTube to help anyone at any stage. 

Digital art does not require much more than traditional art would in terms of materials. As it requires a computer or tablet, a digital art software, a stylus, and a basic understanding of drawing. Some consider digital art to be easier than traditional arts however it does have its own obstacles, understanding the program being used can be tricky getting started. Overall though, like any skill, practice makes perfect! With the right amount of drive and passion, anyone can be a digital artist! 

An example of a step by step portrait created digitally. 

Modern technology has advanced the art world in unimaginable ways and is quite accessible to all! Although creating digital art can be on the pricier side, most art forms do require a bit of investment. However with digital art, materials do not need to be restocked! With all the online programs and tutorials, anyone is able to learn this medium. Using a tablet is very similar to traditional hand drawn art except with many more benefits such as the ability to change the colour or brush stroke with the touch of a button!

To find out more about local artists who create with many mediums: Vancouver On Canvas- Local Artist Guide

Printing Your Wedding Photos

Customizing Photos with Text

Summer is finally here! It also kicks off the wedding season. Months and/or years of planning are finally going to come together for one big celebration. This also means there are many wedding anniversaries to celebrate.

Even though a wedding is one of the most traditional ceremonies in the world, there's always new trends available to inspire each couple. These trends are ever changing but the memories will last forever. Something you'll always have to cherish your memories by is all the photos you've collected over the years and the photos from the big day.

 
Personalization  is usually the key to making a print unique for each couple. You can add your names and wedding date to an image or make a print of your wedding vows. You know that these images will not only bring back fond memories but they will always suit your home. 

I've had many requests to make custom designs for wedding vows and song lyrics to be printed on canvas. Many of these requests are for anniversaries and they are a perfect gift for your wife or husband. 

Another popular design is for photo mosaics. You can gather all your photos and have them all be displayed onto one print!

 

If this is too much for you then a collage is a nice way to display a few of your favourite shots over the years.

If you are looking for an idea for your wedding or anniversary, we have a solution for you! If you are looking for a personalized print please do not hesitate to contact us. If you already have photos you want to print visit www.VancouverOnCanvas.com to start ordering!

Attention All Artists and Photographers: Artist Gallery Program

Hello everyone, it has how long it has been since I made my last blog post! Summer seems to have flew by, I can't believe September is right around the corner. I hope everyone had an amazing Summer and enjoyed all the sunshine we have been getting.

I haven't forgotten to blog but it has been a really busy Summer here in our office. Of course Summer is wedding season and I have seen a lot of wedding, engagement and anniversary prints in the past couple of months.

I've been noticing a lot more artists (painters, illustrators, graphic designers/artists and etc.) have been getting their artwork scanned and printed. Having a digital file of your artwork also helps to archive your artwork and it is a lot easier to carry around. Of course, we work with photographers on a daily basis to get their prints done.

Many local photographers and artists have come by our offices and worked with us to reproduce their artwork. Many of these creative people are either just starting out or experienced but with the creative field I know how tough it can be just to get your work out there.

We've worked with a few new photographers and artists this past Summer who are testing their market and trying to find their place in the creative industry.

One thing that many people don't know notice that we offer a free Artist Gallery Program for locals (starting out and experienced).

Vancouver On Canvas's Artist Gallery Program is a feature allowing artists, photographers or art galleries to sell prints of their artwork. Through the program, artists can upload high-resolution digital images of their work, specify the sizes, set the prices and sell their prints to online visitors. This program is open to all painters, photographers, digital artists, and art galleries. Joining the Artist Gallery Program is completely free.

This is how it works:

1. Sign up for an account on our website (click here to sign up).
2. Email us a few samples from your portfolio (PDF, Website and etc)
3. Once we have reviewed all your material we will activate your gallery where you are able to upload your images and set the specifications.

Click here to learn more.


It's an excellent program that utilizes our services and in return your work gets out to the market and you still get compensated. It is completely safe for we do not sell or reproduce your work without your permission.

Many people now have more access to better quality cameras and equipment but do not know where and how to start. We created this program to allow these creative people to get a start but it's also a great way for professionals to have an additional outlet for their work.

If you're interested or have any questions feel free to contact us for more information.
You can always head over to Vancouver On Canvas.com and create an order before you decide if we are the right fit for you!

Artwork Displaying Methods: Which one should you choose? (Part 2)

In my last blog post, I described the process of dry mounting and what you may need to consider if you wanted to use that method for displaying your photos.

In this post, I will be describing how plaque mounting works and what types of media you might want to get plaque mounted. I will also be writing about plexi-face mounts and what you might need to know.


2. Plaque Mounting
I mentioned in my last blog post that plaque mounting is a type of dry mount that uses medium density fiberboard (MDF) as the mounting surface. The biggest difference between plaque mounts and other dry mount medias is that it is sturdier, more durable, and a UV protective laminate is applied on top of your prints.

It has a minimalistic, modern appearance that is great for offices and modern homes. Many people like to plaque mount photos that are tokens of achievements such as awards, certificates, blueprints, newspaper clipping and etc. It is perfect for mobile display panels, or prints displayed in high-activity areas. Plaque mounts will protect your photos and have a longer lifespan than other types of dry mounts.


How It Works
The process is the same as regular dry mounting. An adhesive fiber is placed between the photo and the MDF board and then heat sealed with a UV protected laminate on top. The result is a smooth surfaces free of bumps and bubbles with a matte finish. One set back is that you cannot get a glossy or textured finish because of the laminate.

Plaque mounting is a less expensive alternative to custom picture framing. It has the protective qualities of a picture frame that is simple, easy to care for and easy to move around. To hang it, a keyhole is drilled out from the back and you can hang it on a screw on the wall.

Plaque mounts have beveled edges that come in a variety of colours to suit your home or complement your photo. At Vancouver on Canvas we also have different styles of plaque mounts that suit your preference. The most standard plaque mount is almost frameless (with a thin beveled edge) and lays flat against the wall. We have other versions that allow for a "frame" appearance or even a canvas style look with a thicker edge. Visit our site to view all the options.

Like dry mounts, this is a permanent procedure and you must consider the value of your artwork and photo before you get it plaque mounted. However, aforementioned, plaque mounting is a lot more durable in the long run than dry mounting on foam core.

Plaque Mounts with different coloured edges and mounting styles

4. Plexiglass Face Mounts
Instead of using a film laminate, plexiglass or acrylic is applied on top of the image, hence the name plexiglass face mount. The plexiglass intensifies the colour gamut of all images because of the way light refractions occur inside the glass - making the colours pop and stand out more.

Even though the photo is placed behind glass we can still print on glossy paper because the finish can actually add more intensity to the colours when the plexiglass is applied on top.

How It Works
First, a transparent, double-sided adhesive is applied onto the front of the print. The protective film is peeled back and then the plexiglass is mounted on top of the print. Different thickness of glass can be used but you must consider two things: where you are hanging your prints and the type of backing you're going to use because it can get very heavy.

After the acrylic is mounted on top of the print, you can either get it plaque mounted or dry mounted to hang your artwork.

Currently, we do offer plexi face mount services but it is by request only and pricing will vary depending on the print and size. Please email us here for requests or price quotes.


Plaque mounts and plexiglass face mounts are a modern and stylish way to display your photos. If you don't want the look of a bulky or traditional picture frame, these two methods are a good alternative. You don't need to worry about glass breaking or changing your frames to match your decor if you move or renovate.

Visit Vancouver on Canvas now to get your photos dry mounted or plaque mounted.