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I was provided with a set of interview questions for the article titled, “iPad masterpieces”. Below are my responses. The whole issue is packed with great articles, be sure to pick up a copy. In addition, my work was used in a review of the Brushes App in the MacFormat iPad The Essential Handbook.

How did you get started painting on the iPad/iPod touch?

I have been painting with acrylics and oils for many years. In 2008, I had an accident with a table saw that left me without an index finger. I’m also unable to bend my middle finger and have limited sensitivity in my thumb. Unfortunately, it was my left hand and I am a lefty.  After the accident my wife and friends surprised me with an iPhone. I soon discovered painting and drawing applications.

Have you used programs other than Brushes and what were their pros and cons?

First, I tried the lite version of Colors. It was fine, but I ended up choosing Brushes. I appreciate how simple Brushes makes drawing on the iphone. The interface didn’t get in the way and it’s so responsive. Brushes is one of the main reasons I became an early adopter of the iPad. I couldn’t wait to make art on it.

Tell us about your work process, from sketching through to final artwork.

I pretty much work the same as I do with traditional media. I begin with an initial sketch to work out the composition, then add in larger shapes for colors or tones. Next I build on it layer after layer adding line, color, and shape.

How does this differ from your more traditional workflow?

I don’t think my workflow has changed much. I still build layer upon layer of color and shape. I am constantly working and reworking the canvas until it feels right. When I paint non-digitally I tend step away from the canvas to get a fresh perspective, I am able do the same with the zoom ability of Brushes. I can zoom out to get a broad compositional view and see how various parts are interacting with each other or zoom in to work on fine details. When painting on canvas I have a bit of prep time mixing colors, stretching canvas, etc. With the iPad, I am able to get to the process of creating quicker. After the work is complete on the iPad there is work involved with sizing, making Giclee print outs, and determining the best method of presentation.

What tools do you use alongside the iPad for drawing (e.g. Styluses)

I just use my finger, I like the direct interaction with the art and it feels more natural than a stylus. One neat thing is the damaged  middle finger that doesn’t bend became a great new drawing instrument.

Does the iPad encourage or restrict your creativity?

For the most part I “paint” the same on the iPad/iPhone as I do on canvas, but with a lot less clean up. I have seen it really encourage my creativity – it hasn’t felt restrictve at all. I will always be a sketchbook fanatic. I take one wherever I go. With the iPad/iPhone, it is like having a full studio in my pocket. When I work on canvas I get my lines with chalk pastels or oil sticks. The iPad has provided a wonderful solution to the need I have for delicate lines and broad shapes of color. It is great to be able to flow with the same media yet achieve such variety of line. The freedom offered by the layering properties of Brushes has permitted me to experiment in a way I can’t on a traditional canvas. When when working on canvas I develop thick coats of paint. I like how I can do the same with the Brushes application allowing the layers to seep through. I truly enjoy the immediacy and portability of having a full palette of colors always with me.

Do you think the iPad will be long lasting tool for artists or is it just a fad?

The iPad as an invaluable tool for me now, in both creating finished works of art, or quickly sketching out new ideas. I can only imagine this is a gateway to more devices and greater tools for creativity in the future.

Will it ever replace traditional ways of drawing?

It is another tool in my toolbox. The iPad has given me some freedom of experimentation to create when and where I choose.  When I only had the iPhone I would carry my sketchbook around too. The iPad and Brushes have essentially replaced my sketchbook. However, I believe the creation of art,  is dependent on the artist’s ability. The tool, no matter how cool, will always be secondary.

What do you see as the next step for your artwork using the iPad?

As always, I want to continue to develop as an artist. With the iPad I want to explore the ability to duplicate a drawing and modify it into new directions. Because the art is digital, there are many options regarding output and presentation. I am still looking for the best way to get the art in the hands of the public. I also see a challenge in finding ways to present the digital drawings so they are seen as a viable medium along side any other traditional media. I would like to spend more time finding ways to bridge the digital and my traditional art. I have done a few presentations using the iPhone as a spring board. I would love to do more of this and be able to share the progress.

Are there any new features Apple could design or apps that you would like to see develop that could help you achieve these goals?

I know we can output video to external sources, but at this time I’m not aware of a way to output applications in a “live” state. I would love to be able to project from my iPad as I draw. As the touch sensor technology improves I hope the control and variation of marks in my iPad drawings will increase as well.

Here is an online version of the article on Tech News.