Digital Painting--a great way to relax

Let me start by saying very plainly that I am not an artist. My art work consists of doodling while I am talking on the phone. If you are looking for technical pointers or any advice about painting or art--you will be sadly disappointed with this hub as I know nothing about how to draw in perspective or properly shadow anything.

Okay, with that disclaimer out of the way let the fun begin. I was looking online the other day at some of the new free software downloads. I simply googled free software downloads and began browsing through the vast amount of programs that are available.

I noticed several programs for art or painting and out of curiosity downloaded one. I was blown away by the choices of brushes, paints, textures and tools!

I am a bit embarrassed to say that I spent the rest of the evening glued to my computer using my mouse to "paint" a lot of colors and shapes. I was fascinated by how the colors so realistically blended and smeared. I was like a two year old with finger paints.

My efforts are predictably of low quality, but what a blast I am having! After several days of spending every spare moment "painting", I realized how addicted I am becoming to this new way to unwind at the end of the day.

The funny thing really is how much pride I have at the end result of my painting. I will drag my wife away from her activities to come look at my newest project and wait like a kid for her to exclaim over my creation. Then I will sit for a few minutes just admiring my handiwork.

Realistically, the digital paintings are borderline awful (I'm not seeking compliments here--just being honest). But the relaxation and pleasure I derive from the effort makes it seem like a very healthy thing to do.

You should try it. No, really. Take a few moments of your spare time and just play around with one of these free programs. It is very relaxing and you might just be surprised at how much you enjoy it.

Okay, here's a few of my creations for you to chortle over: :)