WHAT IS VECTOR ART?
Vector art is formed by using a software application such as Adobe Illustrator (the tool) to create graphics that are designed with curved points and lines. These points and lines create a clean, infinitely scalable picture when combined together in vector artwork. Vector graphics are based on mathematical formulas rather than square pixels, allowing for a crisper display.
The artwork files are significantly smaller in file-size compared to like-for-like pixel images meaning complex layers of lines and shapes can be more easily combined in terms of computer processing demands. The difficulty lies in managing the complexity of an image and controlling the detail ensuring the composition works and chaos does not take over.
BA Studio artist Andy Buttery for a long time digitally drew with a mouse, but now draws with a Wacom tablet and stylus.
Line weight (stroke weight) is extremely important in the final artwork – too light and parts of the image are lost or confused – too strong and the whole composition starts to appear basic and crude.
Many hours of adjusting and moving lines can go into a detailed piece to ensure every part of the image works to full effect and detailing is consistent.
