The term vector is an anomaly to many here on deviantART. To some, it’s a method of creating art. To others, it’s a style of art. While the notions can go on, it must be made clear that the term ‘vector’ refers to a medium which branches out into a complex and ever-growing network of styles and methods, each one as unique and effective as the other.

Another common argument is that vectoring is merely copying or more specifically, tracing. This shall be discussed in depth in the later half of this article.

I. Methods

When creating vector art, the ‘en tool’ is predominantly used followed by gradients, blends and, in some cases, mesh tool. Whatever the tools used, the results range from simple to complex and the more experienced of vector artists can assure you that what can be achieved in paint-capable programs (Adobe Photoshop, Painter, OpenCanvas, etc) can be emulated in vector-capable programs (Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Flash, etc).

As the writer of this article, a reasonable amount of bias might be suspected of me, but for the purpose of proving a point, I shall use my own deviations as I proceed with a paint-vector comparison.



Shown above are two deviations of the same character, Wonder Woman. To the left is the painted version and to the right is the vectored version. These deviations were not created for this news article. The vectored version was personal work dating nearly 3 months back and the painted version was entered in the “Tattoo-A-Wonder-Woman-Contest” held earlier this year. I would not, by any means, submit a half-assed piece to a contest.

Many artists who dislike vector art often remark that vector artists embrace the medium as a means to conceal an ‘impairment’ and not because they simply ‘like it‘. I present my case to prove that vectoring can be and is a personal preference and not a ‘crutch’, as some stubbornly insist.

II. Styles

Many argue that vector art-and even vexel art- has but one face, devoid of diversity and possibility. This could not be any bit more untrue.






Those are just some of the examples that prove vector/vexel art can have the realism of a photo, the lineart of an inked piece and/or the relaxed spontaneity of a paintbrush, etc.


III. Copying or Tracing


What many fail to realize is that vector-capable programs and paint-capable programs have so much in common. But the feature that is of interest in this topic is Layers. Layers allow us to mount our attempts above already existing work and it is up to our taste (or conscience) exactly how much we rely on our reference. While free-hand work is possible and done by a certain number of artists, I’m merely pointing out that whether painting or vector, we are afforded the same means of creating, or in this case, copying or tracing. Just as a vector artist can pen tool over a newly created layer, so can a digital painter merely paint strokes in the same objective.

I hope that my article helps clarify misconceptions regarding vector and even vexel art, as they are often considered siblings, being very closely related. If anything, I hope I have at least loosened prejudices against the mediums.

Remember, there is a glaring difference between passion and prejudice. You can remain passionate about your preferred medium without discriminating others.






Peace and love,