With that information, the driving algorithm could map the path of each individual bristle. It recreated the sensation and the artistic effect of working with physical brushes by recognizing the pressure applied on the stylus and the speed at which it moved when a user executed a stroke. The primary feature of Painter X, for example, was the astoundingly realistic RealBristle tool. What's more the refinements and increased flexibility will draw current users into upgrading. Anyone with a working knowledge of the previous version will be able to step into Painter 11 with ease. Even if your income doesn't depend on it, Painter is still valuable for the wonderfully flexible-if dauntingly sophisticated-digital palette you get as a weekend Van Gogh.Īlthough it's been just over two years since the company updated the package, version 11 is an evolutionary step rather than the revolutionary one you might expect. Arguably, it's de rigueur for anyone whose livelihood involves creating images (yes, that means photographers, too). Painter is meant for serious professionals, such as graphic artists, industrial designers, illustrators, and fine artists. And it makes no concessions to beginners, many of whom would doubtless be happier with a much simpler and less expensive program such as the $25 (direct) ArtRage 2. It isn't for everyone-for example, it isn't meant to (nor can it) replace a serious photo editing package such as Photoshop. Corel Painter 11 is one of these applications, and as such it is an invaluable artist's tool. By shunning the temptation to be all things to all users, some programs manage to retain their purity, focusing on what they do best.