Digital painting courses can help you learn core techniques such as color blending, brush control, lighting, and composition. You can build skills in creating textures, developing character or environment art, and working through iterative design steps. Many courses introduce tools like drawing tablets, digital brushes, and software platforms used to create polished artwork and refine creative ideas.

Michigan State University
Skills you'll gain: Color Theory, Adobe Illustrator, Digital Design, Creativity, Image Quality, Design
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skillshare
Skills you'll gain: Creative Design, Creativity, Computer Graphic Techniques, Graphics Software, Peer Review, Digital Design, Design Elements And Principles, Graphical Tools, Storytelling, Technical Drawing, Color Theory
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Imperial College London
Skills you'll gain: Health Technology, Data Visualization Software, Telehealth, Agile Methodology, Health Disparities, Health Informatics, Health Care, Health Care Procedure and Regulation, Health Systems, Electronic Medical Record, digital literacy, Interoperability, Clinical Data Management, Public Health, Tableau Software, Model Evaluation, Data Ethics, User Centered Design, Technology Strategies, Analytics
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Photo Editing, Adobe Illustrator, Color Theory, Adobe Express, Adobe Photoshop, Responsible AI, Typography, Generative AI, Graphic and Visual Design, Graphic Design, Graphics Software, Graphic and Visual Design Software, Photography, Design, Adobe Creative Cloud, Design Elements And Principles, Digital Design, File Management, Branding, Storytelling
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Canva (Software), Design, Digital Design, Design Elements And Principles, Product Design, Color Theory, Graphic Design, Intellectual Property, Product Promotion, E-Commerce, Digital Assets, Marketing, Marketing Collateral
Advanced · Guided Project · Less Than 2 Hours

Michigan State University
Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, 3D Assets, Computer Graphics, Video Game Development, Adobe Photoshop, Animation and Game Design, Conceptual Design, Graphic and Visual Design, Data Import/Export, Design Elements And Principles
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Michigan State University
Skills you'll gain: Unity Engine, Animations, 3D Modeling, Storyboarding, Color Theory, Animation and Game Design, 3D Assets, Video Game Development, Adobe Photoshop, Autodesk Maya, Computer Graphics, Game Design, Conceptual Design, Prototyping, Graphic and Visual Design, Computer Graphic Techniques, Design, Data Import/Export, Design Elements And Principles, Design Research
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Skills you'll gain: Creativity, Computer Graphic Techniques, Graphics Software, Peer Review, Digital Design, Creative Design, Color Theory
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Firefly, Photo Editing, Adobe Creative Cloud, Generative AI, AI Workflows, Creative Design
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Prompt Engineering, Generative AI, AI Workflows, OpenAI, Responsible AI, Data Ethics, Artificial Intelligence, Creative Design, Image Quality, Design, Digital Design, Graphic Design, Machine Learning
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Adobe Firefly, Adobe Express, Ideation, Adobe Acrobat, Presentations, Generative AI, Content Creation, Creative Thinking, Adobe Photoshop, Creativity, Prompt Engineering, Adobe Illustrator, Storytelling, Visual Design, Graphic Design, Design, Branding, Artificial Intelligence, Communication, Digital Marketing
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

LearnKartS
Skills you'll gain: Adobe Firefly, Generative AI, Photo Editing, Multimedia, Prompt Engineering, Content Creation, ChatGPT, Marketing Materials, Digital Media Strategy, Video Editing, Logo Design, Automation, E-Commerce
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Digital painting is a form of creating artwork using digital tools and software, allowing artists to produce images that can range from realistic to abstract. This medium is important because it combines traditional artistic techniques with modern technology, providing artists with endless possibilities for creativity and expression. Digital painting is widely used in various industries, including gaming, film, and advertising, making it a valuable skill for aspiring artists.
A career in digital painting can lead to various job opportunities, including roles such as concept artist, character designer, illustrator, and visual effects artist. These positions are often found in industries like video game development, animation studios, and advertising agencies. As digital art continues to grow in popularity, the demand for skilled digital painters is likely to increase, offering exciting career paths for those passionate about art and technology.
To succeed in digital painting, you need to develop a range of skills, including proficiency in digital painting software (such as Adobe Photoshop or Corel Painter), an understanding of color theory, composition, and anatomy. Additionally, honing your drawing skills and learning about different artistic styles can enhance your versatility as an artist. Familiarity with digital tools and techniques will also empower you to create unique and compelling artwork.
Some of the best online courses for digital painting include the Digital Painting Specialization, which offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various techniques and styles. Other platforms may also provide valuable resources, but Coursera's specialization is designed to guide you through the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in digital painting.
Yes. You can start learning digital painting on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in digital painting, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.
To learn digital painting, start by selecting a digital painting software that suits your needs. Familiarize yourself with the tools and features available in the software. Next, practice regularly by following tutorials, experimenting with different techniques, and creating your own projects. Joining online communities or forums can also provide support and feedback, helping you improve your skills over time.
Digital painting courses typically cover topics such as digital tools and software, color theory, composition, character design, and various painting techniques. You may also explore styles ranging from realism to abstract art. Many courses include practical assignments and projects to help you apply what you've learned and develop your unique artistic voice.
For training and upskilling employees in digital painting, the Digital Painting Specialization is an excellent choice. It provides a structured learning path that equips participants with essential skills and techniques, making it suitable for both beginners and those looking to enhance their existing abilities. This specialization can help organizations foster creativity and innovation within their teams.