University of California, Santa Cruz

Digital Painting: Hybrid Techniques and Concept Art

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University of California, Santa Cruz

Digital Painting: Hybrid Techniques and Concept Art

This course is part of Digital Painting Specialization

Kathleen Deck

Instructor: Kathleen Deck

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 weeks to complete
at 10 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Adapt traditional sketching, underpainting, and layering techniques into a non-destructive digital workflow.

  • Integrate photographic assets with digital paint using blending modes and photobashing techniques to construct concept art.

  • Analyze entertainment industry pipelines to apply visual development methodologies across commercial creative occupations.

Details to know

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Recently updated!

November 2026

Assessments

6 assignments¹

AI Graded see disclaimer
Taught in English

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This course is part of the Digital Painting Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
  • Learn new concepts from industry experts
  • Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
  • Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
  • Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 2 modules in this course

Building on the fundamentals from Course 1 "Digital Painting: Photoshop Setup and Foundations", this module explores the fascinating intersection of traditional and digital painting techniques. You will learn how concepts like sketching and underpainting, traditionally used in physical art, can be effectively adapted and enhanced in a digital environment. We will examine how artists blend non-digital and digital tools in their creative processes, and you will have the opportunity to apply these hybrid approaches by recreating a historical painting with your own unique digital twist.

What's included

1 video7 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt

This module explores the dynamic relationship between digital painting and photography, focusing on its applications within various industries. You will learn how concept artists visualize complex ideas by integrating photographic elements into their digital work, a technique often referred to as photo-bashing. We will examine different creative occupations that leverage these skills and analyze how artists blend real and surreal worlds using photography and digital paint. Through practical assignments, you will develop your own concept art piece, incorporating photographic references and digital painting techniques.

What's included

1 video5 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt

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Instructor

Kathleen Deck
University of California, Santa Cruz
0 Courses0 learners

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¹ Some assignments in this course are AI-graded. For these assignments, your data will be used in accordance with Coursera's Privacy Notice.