The Complete Guide to ImagineFX: How the Leading Digital Art Magazine Inspires Artists Worldwide

ImagineFX is a monthly magazine published by Future plc that focuses on digital art and illustration. First published in June 2004, ImagineFX has established itself as one of the leading publications for artists working in digital media. With a readership of over 100,000 worldwide, the ImagineFX magazine provides inspiration, interviews, tutorials and reviews aimed at both professionals and enthusiasts.

Some key facts about ImagineFX:

• Published monthly since June 2004
• Based in the UK but distributed worldwide
• Readership of over 100,000
• Covers digital art, illustration, motion graphics, VFX, concept art and more
• Mix of tutorials, features, interviews and reviews
• Available digitally and in print
• Organizes the annual EXPO conference for digital creatives
• Sister magazine to 3D World magazine
• Published by Future plc, which publishes over 50 magazines

Content and Focus

The editorial content of ImagineFX focuses on several core themes:

Digital Art Techniques

• Step-by-step tutorials teaching creative workflows and techniques in programs like Photoshop, Painter, Clip Studio Paint and more
• Covers topics like digital painting, matte painting, texture painting, speed painting, character design and more
• Tips, tricks and guides to help artists master digital art software

Illustration

• Showcases outstanding 2D and 3D illustrations across styles and genres
• Interviews with leading illustrators about their creative process and career
• Techniques for illustrating book covers, magazines, posters, concept art and more

Motion Graphics & VFX

• Tutorials on motion graphics, compositing, animation and VFX using tools like After Effects and Cinema 4D
• Real-world breakdowns of TV show opening titles, film VFX, music videos and commercials

Concept Art

• Advice on designing characters, creatures, environments and vehicles for films, games and animation
• Insight into the work of professional concept artists in the entertainment industry

Reviews

• In-depth reviews and roundups of the latest hardware and software for digital art, such as drawing tablets, 2D & 3D programs, plugins and more
• Provides guidance on the best tools for different budgets and needs

Regular Columns and Series

ImagineFX has several regular columns and article series that have appeared in the magazine over the years:

• Workshop — The longest running column, featuring tutorials from top artists across various disciplines and tools. Covers topics like digital painting, matte painting, compositing and more.
• Artist Q&A — Interviews with professional creatives about their career paths and creative insights.
• Reader Showcase — Highlights standout work by ImagineFX readers and gives them a platform to display their talents.
• Tablet Review — Ongoing reviews of the latest graphics tablets, pens and other hardware for digital artists.
• Essential Tips & Tricks — Quick guides to help artists get the most out of their creative software and tools.
• Artist Spotlight — Profiles talented up-and-coming illustrators and concept artists.
• Master the Masters — Recreates the painting techniques of classic artists using digital tools.
• Free Resources — Highlights the best free brushes, textures, reference images and tutorials available online.

Key Team Members

ImagineFX is created by a team of editors, writers and designers with backgrounds in digital art and illustration:

• Editor: Sophie Pyle — Has edited ImagineFX since 2021 and previously worked on Render magazine. Background as a freelance illustrator.
• Deputy Editor: Nicholas Aleksander — Joined in 2022 after working at 3D Artist magazine. Expertise in concept art and environment design.
• Art Editor: Marc Dando — In charge of assigning and curating artwork for galleries and tutorials since 2015. Professional digital painter.
• Senior Art Writer: Tom Bagshaw — Writes workshops and technique features across mediums. Has authored over 50 tutorials for ImagineFX.
• Contributors: ImagineFX works with over 100 professional artists who write tutorials or provide artwork. Includes artists like Craig Mullins, Jama Jurabaev, Linda Lithén and more.

This experienced team provides helpful, actionable content and showcases outstanding talent through their network of contributors.

Conferences and Events

ImagineFX Expo — This is an annual conference organized by ImagineFX focused on digital creativity. First held in 2018, it features workshops, presentations, panels and networking for digital artists:

• Workshops — Led by professional artists, covering topics like concept art, matte painting, kitbashing, animation and more. Hands-on learning.
• Presentations — Talks and demos from studio artists in gaming, film VFX and other entertainment fields.
• Artist Panels — Q&A sessions with leading illustrators, concept artists and other creatives discussing their work.
• Recruiting — Companies like Ubisoft and Framestore attend to scout talent. Opportunities for portfolio reviews.
• Competitions — Attendees can showcase artwork with prizes awarded in categories like character design and environment art.
• Networking — Connect with fellow artists and companies in person.

The ImagineFX team also attends industry events worldwide like Comic-Con to connect with readers and promote the magazine.

Critical Reception and Impact

Since its launch, ImagineFX has earned a reputation as one of the top publications for digital artists:

• Praised by artists for quality tutorials from industry professionals that serve as an accessible learning resource.
• Considered a leading showcase of outstanding 2D and 3D artwork across styles and mediums.
• Valued for its industry perspective, with columns/interviews providing insight into art careers.
• Lauded for high production standards and beautiful layouts/printing that celebrate artwork.
• Has influenced many young artists to pursue careers in digital art and provides guidance for amateurs looking to turn pro.
• Despite availability of free online tutorials, the curation, quality and inspirational value of ImagineFX is recognized.
• Seen as the premier print publication for today’s digital artist, maintaining its relevance for over 15 years.

For over a decade and a half, ImagineFX has provided practical inspiration and education to its readers. It has spotlighted up-and-coming artistic talent, while also learning from industry veterans. For any digital artist looking to improve their skills and appreciate incredible artwork, ImagineFX delivers. While the technology and tools evolve rapidly, the magazine’s mission remains steadfast — to enlighten, motivate and celebrate those creating digital art.

ImagineFX Online

In addition to its print edition, ImagineFX maintains several online presences:

Website

• Serves as a hub highlighting the latest issue and articles
• Contains an expanded showcase of digital artwork
• Provides selected free tutorials from each issue
• Allows digital magazine purchases and print subscriptions

Social Media

• Active Facebook page with over 180,000 followers
• Instagram account with over 70,000 followers
• Posts samples of magazine artwork plus exclusives
• Shares imaginative artists to follow for inspiration
• Engages readers through comments, polls and contests

YouTube Channel

• Over 45,000 subscribers
• Publishes companion videos for print tutorials
• Releases digital painting timelapses and creative experiments
• Hosts archived recordings of ImagineFX Expo presentations

Newsletter

• Monthly email newsletter covering issue highlights, contests, events and more
• Delivers exclusive content to subscribers like bonus tutorials
• Keeps readers up to date between print issues

This online presence allows ImagineFX to reach new audiences worldwide and provide ongoing value to its readers beyond the printed page.

The Future of ImagineFX

While digital magazines and internet tutorials create competition, ImagineFX retains a devoted readership who value its professional curation, high-quality production and inspirational value.

Some possible directions for future growth include:

• Expanding tutorial offerings on the website with premium paid content
• Continuing to spotlight more diverse artistic voices and styles
• Partnering with companies like Wacom or Adobe for branded tutorials using their tools
• Recruiting more A-list concept artists and illustrators as contributors
• Hosting ImagineFX Expo events in new international cities
• Increasing video content online through artist interviews, creative processes and podcasts
• Utilizing augmented reality to enrich print tutorials with interactive step-by-steps

As technology changes, the timeless human desire for creative inspiration endures. With over 15 years experience visualizing the future of digital art, ImagineFX is poised to continue leading the way.