Using Random Shapes to Spark Creativity

As artists, we all go through times when we hit a creative block. It can be challenging to come up with new ideas and designs, especially when you are working on a tight deadline. Fortunately, there are many techniques that artists use to spark inspiration and creativity. In this article, we will explore three techniques that you can use to get inspiration for character and environment design.

Using Paint Smudges for Character and Environment Design

One of the techniques that some artists use is the paint smudge technique. This technique involves creating random paint smudges on paper and then refining the shapes into character or environment designs. To use this technique, all you need is a piece of paper, some paint, and a relatively large brush or brush pen. Once you have created the smudges, you can hang the paper on the wall and start refining the shapes. This technique can be very effective because it allows you to create shapes and designs that you may not have thought of otherwise.

Observing Clouds for Inspiration

Another technique that some artists use for inspiration is observing clouds. Clouds can have very interesting and unique shapes, and they can be a great source of inspiration for character and environment designs. Once you see a shape that you like, you can take a picture with your phone or do a quick sketch in your notebook. This technique can be especially effective because it allows you to find inspiration in the world around you and create organic forms that resonate with almost any audience.

Observing Abstract Art for Inspiration

Another technique that some artists use is observing abstract art. Abstract art often features random shapes and colors, and these can be a great source of inspiration for character and environment designs. To use this technique, all you need is access to abstract art. You can go to a museum, browse online galleries, or even create your own abstract art. Once you find a piece that you like, you can study it and try to find interesting shapes and colors that you can incorporate into your own designs. It's a good practice to frequently shift your point of focus and zoom level of the picture to make same artpiece reusable again and again. It's a common practice to call abstract art - "Art for artists"

The Need for Convenient and Portable Inspiration

While these techniques can be very effective, they all have one major drawback: they are not very convenient or portable. If you are working on a tight deadline, you may not have the time to go outside and observe clouds, or you may not have access to abstract art. Also spending time in searching abstract art pieces takes time, that you could use for inspiration triggering. This is where idea of Silugen creation originated.

Creation

Silugen was created to provide artists and designers with a new tool to unleash their creativity. The first version of Silugen was very basic, with just a one shape type that users could manipulate to create unique designs. However, the simplicity of the app was part of its appeal, as it allowed users to focus on their creativity rather than the technical aspects of the app.

Evolution

The next version of Silugen included the addition of "Tales," a feature that generated text prompts to inspire users' designs. This was a groundbreaking addition, as it allowed users to incorporate storytelling into their designs. The prompts were designed to be open-ended, which allowed for endless possibilities and creativity.

Another significant addition to Silugen was the inclusion of "Palettes." This feature gave users the ability to select from a wide range of color palettes that were carefully curated to complement each other. The palettes were designed to provide users with inspiration and guidance on color selection, making it easier for them to create visually stunning designs.

Adoption in the Creative Industry

Silugen has provided artists and designers with a new tool to explore their creativity, and it has enabled them to create unique designs quickly and easily. Silugen has become a go-to tool for many designers, and its usage can be seen in different artists sketchbooks and even portfolios.

One of the key benefits of Silugen is that it is accessible to everyone. The app is user-friendly, free, no ads, and its simplicity makes it easy for anyone to use, regardless of their level of experience. This has democratized the creative process, making it possible for anyone to explore their creativity and create something unique.

Silugen's New Home in Fenvox

After multi year journey, Silugen finally ported to web and found it’s home in Fenvox. The web version of Silugen is now live on https://fenvox.com/silugen-silhouettes-generator, with new adjustments and improvements based on user suggestions. This marks a new chapter for Silugen, its fans, and its developers.

What's New in Silugen's Web Version

The web version of Silugen comes with several new adjustments and improvements based on user suggestions. Some of the key features and improvements include:

1. Faster Performance

The user interface and user experience of Silugen have been revamped for the web version, making it more intuitive and user-friendly.

2. Democratized platfrom

Now user don't need to have an iOS or Android device, all what's needed is just a browser. It could be used on TV, smart fridge, and probably on some futuristic toasters too :)

3. New features

Now it's possible to go through history of passed generations. Another feature is an ability to stash some silhouettes. This silhouettes are preserved and could be retrieved even after browser closing.

The Future of Silugen in Fenvox

With Silugen's journey to the web and its new home in Fenvox, the future looks bright. The Silugen team is committed to continuing to improve and innovate the tool.