As a relative newcomer to the scene, digital art is still jostling to find its place in the art world – and the debate around whether digital art is ‘real’ art rages on.
Some believe that while traditional art is the result of blood, sweat, tears and talent, digital art relies on technology to do the hard part.
But while the latest creative tools – from tablets and styluses to software packages and apps – can bring a whole new level of convenience to the process, they can’t replicate creativity and talent.
In fact, far from dehumanising art, the more advanced digital painting technologies become, the more closely we become connected with art.
While the fine art industry is as elite and exclusive as ever – and based as much on politics as it is on painting skills – digital art is opening up the doors of this world to the masses.
You don’t need to visit a top London gallery to see a great digital painting in its original form – it can be viewed at home, at work, on the bus, in bed…
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This accessibility is inspiring a whole new wave of aspiring artists - and it isn’t just the newcomers who are sitting up and taking notice.
Just as traditional print journalists have begun a mass exodus to the digital 'dark side', some of the world’s greatest contemporary artists have begun to turn their attention to the screen.
Head to s[edition] – a website that invites you to "collect art for the digital age" by purchasing original works from the site, to download to your computer, tablet, phone and TV – and you'll find limited edition pieces from the likes of Damien Hirst among hundreds of other celebrated artists.
Still not convinced about the validity of digital painting? Click through our gallery below to see some of the best digital work on the web right now...