Marmoset Hexels 2 (2016)

Marmoset Hexels 2 is an advanced grid-based digital painting application designed to enable artists to produce intricate and vibrant works with precision and ease. This tool transforms the creative process by allowing users to work within structured polygonal grids, giving both beginners and experienced creators the capability to produce complex visual designs. Hexels 2 builds on its predecessor, introducing new functionalities and refinements that enhance the workflow and artistic possibilities.

Grid-Based Creativity

At its core, Hexels 2 uses a polygonal grid system that includes multiple grid types such as Classic, Pixel, Trixel with Sub-grids, and Voronoi. These grids provide a flexible foundation for creating artwork, supporting detailed and precise designs. Users can also create fully customized grids, expanding the scope of experimentation and enabling unique patterns and layouts.

Advanced Shape Modes

Hexels 2 introduces the Trixel mode, a highly versatile feature that allows users to subdivide their canvas into multifaceted sub-grids. This mode is ideal for generating isometric worlds, intricate geometric patterns, and abstract art forms. By subdividing grids, artists can add depth and detail to their compositions, ensuring precise control over complex designs.

Customizable Interface

The software offers a flexible and rearrangeable user interface, enabling users to optimize their workspace according to their workflow preferences. Tools, panels, and controls can be moved and adjusted, reducing barriers between concept and execution, and allowing for an efficient and intuitive creative process.

Layer Management

Hexels 2 introduces a powerful layering system that supports non-destructive editing. Users can work on multiple layers simultaneously, make local adjustments at any point, and duplicate layers to explore variations or test new ideas without altering the original artwork. This functionality increases creative flexibility and streamlines iterative design.

Animation Capabilities

The application features a robust animation system that allows artists to bring their creations to life. The integrated key-frame editor simplifies the process of creating animated sequences, making it possible to produce high-quality GIFs and dynamic visuals. Hexels 2 supports frame-based animation with precise control over motion and timing.

Palette and Color Management

The enhanced palette window automatically generates color swatches while painting and provides drag-and-drop functionality for organizing colors. Users can create gradient transitions and refine color choices efficiently. This tool allows for meticulous control over hues, saturation, and gradients, ensuring accurate color representation in artwork.

Expanded Export Options

Hexels 2 supports exporting artwork in multiple formats, including PSD with layers, animated GIFs, SVG, XML, and CSV. The software also allows for wrapped or tileable canvas designs and supports background image import. Users can convert photos into Hexels patterns, use halftone modes, and apply textures and glow effects to enhance visual output.

Additional Features

• Improved Outline Tool for precise edge control
• Gradient and Noise Tools for advanced color manipulation
• Super Grid for expanded grid functionality
• Drawing tablet input support for natural brush control

Artistic Inspiration

Hexels 2 has been used by prominent artists to create featured works, demonstrating the application’s capabilities in professional digital art. Artists such as Mira Karouta, Mark Knight, and Niall Taylor have showcased the versatility of the platform through their contributions, illustrating its capacity for detailed, animated, and experimental designs.

Summary

Overall, Marmoset Hexels 2 is a comprehensive digital art tool that combines grid-based precision with powerful creative features. Its flexible interface, advanced shape modes, animation tools, layered editing, and extensive export options make it suitable for a wide range of artistic projects. Hexels 2 provides an efficient platform for creating structured, detailed, and animated artworks, appealing to both professional and hobbyist digital artists.

Marmoset Hexels 2 is a unique and fun tool for anyone who loves creating digital art. The grid-based system makes it easy to build complex shapes and patterns without feeling overwhelmed. Even beginners can jump in and make something that looks impressive quickly.

The new features in Hexels 2, like layers, animation tools, and advanced palettes, give artists a lot of flexibility. You can experiment freely and refine your work step by step. It’s playful, creative, and really encourages exploration.

We recommend Marmoset Hexels 2 for anyone interested in digital art, from casual hobbyists to serious creators. It’s easy to learn, full of possibilities, and a lot of fun to use. Definitely worth trying.