The Influence of the Internet on Doodling.

Doodling, the spontaneous and often unconscious act of drawing or scribbling, has long been associated with idle moments, daydreaming, and creative expression. With the advent of the internet and the proliferation of digital devices, the way we engage in doodling has undergone a significant transformation. In this article, we will explore the influence of the internet on doodling, examining how online platforms, digital tools, and social media have shaped the nature, accessibility, and perception of this art form.

Digital Doodling Tools:

The internet has brought forth a plethora of digital doodling tools that have revolutionized the way people engage in doodling. Software applications, such as Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, and Sketchbook, provide artists and enthusiasts with a wide range of digital brushes, colors, and effects to create intricate and vibrant doodles. These tools offer endless possibilities for experimentation, allowing users to undo, redo, and refine their doodles effortlessly. The convenience of digital doodling tools has made it easier for individuals to explore their creativity without the need for physical art supplies or a dedicated workspace.

Online Doodling Communities and Inspiration:

The internet has fostered the growth of online communities centered around doodling. Social media platforms like Instagram, Tumblr, and Pinterest have become virtual galleries where individuals can share their doodles, find inspiration, and connect with fellow doodlers from around the world. These online communities provide a supportive environment for artists of all skill levels to showcase their work, receive feedback, and collaborate on doodle challenges or art prompts. The exposure to diverse styles and techniques through online platforms has influenced the evolution and experimentation of doodling as artists draw inspiration from one another.

Collaborative Doodling and Crowd-Sourced Art:

The internet has facilitated collaborative doodling and the creation of crowd-sourced art projects. Platforms like Doodle Addicts and Drawpile allow multiple users to contribute to a single doodle, creating collaborative artworks that blend different styles and perspectives. These platforms enable artists to connect and interact with others, transcending geographical boundaries. Crowd-sourced art projects, such as "Draw This in Your Style" challenges, invite artists to reinterpret and add their personal touch to a given doodle, resulting in a collective celebration of creativity and diversity.

Animated Doodles and GIFs:

The internet's influence on doodling goes beyond static images. With the rise of GIFs and short animations, doodling has found a new dynamic dimension. Artists can transform their doodles into animated loops, breathing life into their creations. Platforms like Giphy and Tenor have become repositories for animated doodles, allowing users to share and express themselves through these whimsical and captivating visual snippets. The accessibility of animation tools and the ease of sharing through social media have contributed to the popularity of animated doodles as a form of self-expression and communication.

Commercialization of Doodling:

The internet has also opened avenues for the commercialization of doodling. Artists can monetize their doodles by selling digital prints, merchandise, or offering commissions through online platforms like Etsy or personal websites. Online marketplaces provide a global reach, enabling artists to showcase and sell their doodles to a broader audience. Online platforms have also facilitated collaborations between artists and brands, where doodles are used for product design, company branding, or marketing campaigns. The internet's influence on doodling has transformed it into a viable avenue for artists to earn recognition and income from their craft.

Conclusion:

The internet has had a profound impact on the practice and perception of doodling. Digital doodling tools, online communities, and social media platforms have expanded the accessibility, inspiration, and collaborative possibilities within the world of doodling. Artists can now explore their creativity using an array of digital tools, share their work with a global audience, and find inspiration from fellow doodlers. Animated doodles and the commercialization of doodling have added new dimensions and opportunities for artists. As the internet continues to evolve, so too will its influence on the art of doodling, shaping its future and transforming it into an ever-evolving form of expression in the digital age.