University of California, Santa Cruz

Digital Painting: Immersive Art and Moving Portraits

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University of California, Santa Cruz

Digital Painting: Immersive Art and Moving Portraits

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

  • Evaluate how digital painting techniques extend into immersive media, including VR, AR, 3D texturing, and creative coding.

  • Paint a detailed digital portrait applying advanced value structure, color temperature, and motion-based visual effects.

  • Assemble a curated professional portfolio showcasing technical proficiency, personal style, and digital painting mastery.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Recently updated!

November 2026

Assessments

5 assignments¹

AI Graded see disclaimer
Taught in English

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Build your subject-matter expertise

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

In this module, we explore the expansive world of immersive digital painting and environments, examining how digital art can transcend traditional canvases to create captivating experiences. You will discover how digital paint is utilized in installations, virtual reality, augmented reality, and 3D-based works to engage audiences in unique ways. We will also delve into the fascinating realm of creative coding, understanding how programming languages contribute to artistic expression and the tools we use. Through lectures and practical exercises, you will gain insight into the technical underpinnings of digital art and begin to experiment with code-based artistic creation.

What's included

2 videos4 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt

This final module focuses on the creation of moving portraits, integrating all the digital painting techniques you've learned throughout the course. You will apply advanced blending and value rendering skills to create a highly detailed hand-painted portrait, which will then be brought to life with movement. We will explore various movement techniques and fantastical elements to enhance your final piece. Additionally, this module guides you through compiling a comprehensive portfolio of your work, reflecting on your artistic growth and technical proficiency. This is your opportunity to showcase your mastery of digital painting and prepare for future creative endeavors.

What's included

2 videos3 readings2 assignments1 discussion prompt

Earn a career certificate

Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

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.