Summary:

This clearly written book introduces readers to the new and exciting field of digital media, providing solid and useful information for those just beginning their exploration and those expanding their knowledge. It explains each of the new media, along with its history and connection to the worlds of art and design. Essential key concepts and techniques for image-editing, digital illustration and painting, 2-D and 3-D animation, digital layout, and web design are covered. Among its features is an analysis of the computer and its peripherals to explain the different elements of a digital media studio with clearly defined terms that do not require a technical background. Boxed information discuss digital media's significant leaders and founders, trend-setting digital artists and designers, and useful technical information. The authors' goal has been to write a book that captures the energy and enthusiasm that artists and designers, both young and old, feel as they explore digital media.

Table of Contents:
I. INTRODUCTION. 1. The Artist and the Computer.
II. THE HARDWARE. 2. The History of Computers: From Calculator to Multimedia.
3. In the Box: Inside the Computer.
4. Outside of the Box: Hard and Soft Copy.
III. THE DIGITAL MEDIA. 5. The Pioneers of Digital Art.
6. Digital Layout and Design.
7. Image-Editing.
8. Digital Painting.
9. Vector Drawing and Illustration.
10. 2D Animation.
11. 3D Modeling and Animation.
12. The Internet and the World Wide Web: A Brief History.
13. Designing for the Web: Tools and Technologies.
IV. EPILOGUE. 14. The Digital Studio: Artist Portfolios and Careers.