New technologies keep transforming the way we live. Virtual reality, in particular, allows people to build their own worlds – for work or for entertainment purposes. While researchers use VR visualization to handle and analyze big data, other people are trying to express themselves artistically in an immersive environment. If you want to unleash your inner Picasso in 3D, you can try one of the many VR art creation tools available for painting and sculpting.
Exploring Creativity in 3D
Many people believe they could create art, but they are not good at drawing. However, when they have digital tools available to do the hard work for them, they are able to express themselves. Now that new technologies push the barriers of cyberspaces, it is possible to become immersed in a virtual world where you can create 3D art.
This is the concept behind VR art creation tools. Each user can have their own private world where they can relax by creating shapes and colors. There is no peer pressure, because no one can see these creations if the user does not wish to share them. For many people, this is a very important factor – they would like to relax through art, but do not want to be judged for their results.
Get Started With Some of the Best VR Art Creation Tools
This being said, here are some recommendations of the most intuitive and creative VR art creation tools to try.
1. A-Painter
A-Painter is probably one of the most user-friendly VR art creation tools available for free. Developed by Mozilla, the tool does not require installation. You simply open it in your browser and start creating your artwork.
This tool showcases the benefits of webVR and allows you to:
- Create 3D paintings using hand-tracked motion;
- Drag and drop objects to add to your artwork;
- Select one of the 30+ brushes available;
- Share your work with others;
- Collaborate with your friends and paint over their creations.
2. Blocks
If you want to create 3D models without having any coding skills, then Blocks is the right choice for you. This VR art creation tool is available for free for Oculus Rift, HTC Vive, and Valve Index.
You have six basic tools available – shape, stroke, paint, modify, grab, and erase – but they let you create anything you wish.
From a simple object like a flower to a complex aircraft model, you can create realistic 3D models and then export them as OBJ files or animated GIFs.
3. Tilt Brush
Google is one of the most innovative companies, so there is no surprise that it launched a VR art creation tool. You can get Tilt Brush on Steam or Oculus Store for $20.
What do you get for this money? The tool offers you complete freedom to turn your room into a canvas and paint in 3D. Tilt brush has a very intuitive interface and a wide range of dynamic brushes, which include surprising elements such as fire, snow, and light.
4. Quill
This free VR art creation tool by Smoothstep allows you to draw in 3D and animate your designs. Some of the most useful features of this tool are:
- Ability to handle many layers at the same time;
- Ability to handle very large files and load them quickly;
- Animation support through intuitive tools that do not require CG technical knowledge;
- Many editing tools to erase, colorize, and adjust your artwork.
Quill is available for free for Oculus.
5. SculptrVR
We conclude our list of VR art creation tools with SculptrVR, a tool available on Oculus Quest, Oculus Rift, and Steam. It is ideal for children, as it supports multiplayer use and encourages users to collaborate and create beautiful 3D models.
From superheroes to magical creatures, you can create your own wondrous world using the powerful and intuitive tools which do all the work for you. Once you are happy with your work, you can export it as FBX and OBJ files or render it in HD.
