Just when I find myself getting a little too cocky when it comes to creating
digital artwork along comes the latest issue of Expose from Ballistic Publishing and am
quickly put in my place.
When Ballistic describes Expose as containing the finest digital art in the
known universe they are not lying. I've
never seen such an incredible collection of digital art compiled in one place
in such an attractive format.
Expose 10 features a high-gloss cover and back cover with small fold-over
inner flaps spotlighting other Ballistic publications. Interior pages consist of gloss pages with
full-color illustrations printed in high resolution. If my designer eye isn't deceiving me the DPI is at 1200 or
thereabouts.
Edited by Ronnie Gramazio, Expose 10 is filled with 2D and 3D art from
artists all over the globe. Categories
include three Portrait categories, two Architecture, Warriors & Conflict, Science
Fiction, Robotic/Cyborg, Comic/Manga, Fantasy Femmes, Concept Art, Matte Painting,
Abstract & Design, Surreal, Storytelling, Whimsical, Transport and
Steampunk.
Each category is represented by stunning art displaying high degrees of
technical skill, color mastery, design accuracy and a command of the various
elements and principles of design.
A wide variety of programs are used while the majority of the art being done
using Photoshop in one degree or another.
If you've ever illustrated or painted art using computer programs and
drawing tablets or direct on screen using a drawing pen or mouse you can
appreciate the amazing results as demonstrated by each artist represented.
As a Commercial Art instructor in a local high school I use Ballistic
Publishing's various art books as teaching tools to demonstrate what can be
achieved using digital art if you are talented and persistent enough.
My students are amazed at the art they see and while some tend to give up
any hopes of becoming digital artists once they see their competition, others become
more determined than ever to match and exceed what they've seen in the pages of
Expose or other Ballistic Publishing books.