Expert: Tom Rouze - 3/5/2009

Question
Hi Tom:
I am an aspiring artist, my main media is acryllics and graphite. I've just recently finished taking a class in photoshop when I was talking to my profesor I told her that I had just bought myself a tablet and was really interested in learning how to digitally create and not just photo-manipulate. She suggested that I should start looking for reading material on Adobe Illustrator.
Would you know anywhere on the internet or even suggest some books that I might be able to self teach? I'm really looking for something related to creating and techniques with digital tablets.
-Thank you in advance.

Answer
Hi Samatha,

There are many, many books out there but the book I suggest quite often is Adobe's Classroom in a book Illustrator. It has individual lessons and example files to help you understand the various tools. The great thing about the book is you know if it's right by comparing to the example given.  This is a great start, easy to understand and the book is from Adobe.
Adobe also offers Classroom in a Book for most of their programs. Cost is around $35 each but worth every penny. You can get used earlier versions of the book (AI 10, CS, CS2) on Amazon. Make sure they have the CD with it (it contains the lesson files).
Good luck and if you need any help please ask.

Thank you,

Tom