Last month, Adobe made a bold move to attract digital artists by making its drawing and painting app, Adobe Fresco, entirely free. Previously accessible only through a subscription for premium features, the app now opens its full suite of tools to all users. This development positions Fresco as a compelling free alternative to popular digital art apps like Procreate and Clip Studio Paint, and that’s one of the reasons why it is our App of the Month.
Launched in 2019, Adobe Fresco has undergone over 50 updates, introducing more than 120 new features. Designed for iPads, iPhones, and Windows PCs, it offers seamless compatibility with stylus tools like the Apple Pencil. It supports haptic feedback, tilt recognition, and advanced shortcuts, giving artists a high level of control. Fresco also integrates effortlessly with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, allowing users to switch between apps without the need for exporting files. This makes it an invaluable addition to Adobe’s ecosystem, especially for those who rely on multi-app workflows.
Fresco’s standout feature is its brush variety. It includes over 1,000 pixel brushes, vector brushes, and Live Brushes that mimic real-world tools like watercolours and oils. Artists can even import Photoshop brushes, adding a layer of customisation not commonly found in other apps. Another unique offering is the ability to create symmetrical designs using rotational and reflective symmetry guides, perfect for intricate patterns or mandalas.
The app goes beyond static illustration by incorporating motion tools. Artists can animate their work using frame-by-frame techniques or motion paths, turning static art into dynamic GIFs or MP4 videos. Combined with tools like the magic wand, liquify, and free transform, Fresco provides a powerful toolkit for artists looking to expand their creative possibilities. Additional features like time-lapse exports, built-in tutorials, and automatic colour palettes further enhance its appeal.
Competing with apps like Procreate, which boasts a one-time purchase model and a loyal user base, Adobe Fresco has faced challenges in gaining traction. Procreate’s affordable pricing and stance against generative AI have endeared it to artists concerned about the ethics of AI. However, Fresco has its advantages, including desktop compatibility and cloud storage, which Procreate lacks. Moreover, Adobe Fresco does not have any of Adobe’s generative AI tools.
Despite Adobe’s reputation in the creative community, Fresco remains relatively under-the-radar compared to its flagship products like Photoshop. Yet, its unique blend of features, especially its motion tools and seamless integration with other Adobe apps, makes it a strong contender in the digital art space.
The app’s comprehensive feature set includes tools for precise line art, colour adjustments, and text integration using Adobe’s expansive font library. With unlimited layers, multicolour swatches, and robust export options, Fresco caters to both hobbyists and professional artists. Its built-in tutorials and vibrant community of creators further solidify it as a platform for skill-building and inspiration.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner exploring digital art, Fresco offers tools to elevate your creativity. With its emphasis on versatility and innovation, it’s a worthy contender for your next creative project.
Adobe Fresco is available on both the Apple App Store and Microsoft Store for free. More information about Adobe Fresco can be found on the website.
Natalie is a big fan of anything related to movies, TV shows, and anime — you name it. When she’s not reading or being a dedicated cinephile, she’s probably playing gacha and tabletop games, or daydreaming of Sylus from Love and Deepspace.
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