[ubuntu-art] Mandating usage of free tools.

[Thorsten Wilms]

On Sat, 2009-04-11 at 12:18 -0700, Smartboy wrote:
> On Sat, Apr 11, 2009 at 12:04 PM, Cory K. <coryisatm at ubuntu.com> wrote:

> > I believe that *all* submissions for official art or projects under the
> > art team be created with free tools.
> >
> > No more wallpapers done with Photoshop and the like for instance. All
> > submissions done with free formats also. All images would be PNG/SVG.
> >
> > There's something flawed about promoting a free OS and creating it's
> > look with another. (Win/OSX) My personal philosophy is "use the right
> > tool for the job" and our tools are plenty capable.


> I disagree. I think that if it works for you, why should you change?
> Most people who use Photoshop do so because they are used to it, and
> when they switch over to GIMP they can't create as good art because
> they don't know how to use it as well. It could take them a while to
> master the new tools. Is it really worth it for trying to contribute
> to a free project?


I care more about the formats, less the tools.

Because if someone offers "source" material in a proprietary format,
most of us can't do anything with it. It's easy to get yourself a legal
copy of GIMP, but not so with Photoshop.

But Cory is right, promoting free software by using closed tools smells
bad.

> If we restrict choice in this manner, I think the backlash will be
> less art from "capable" artists (ie, professionals).

Rico is the only example I can think of. He was unhappy about the
development of the Ibex wallpaper, but it's more likely it's his
professional workload that kept him away since then.
So: don't worry about that ;p


-- 
Thorsten Wilms

thorwil's design for free software:
http://thorwil.wordpress.com/