The computer has become an essential tool for anyone working in the fields of design, photography, videography, illustration, industrial design, animation, and multimedia and web design. By considering hardware and software a creative tool rather than a robot or a art creating machine, it quickly becomes obvious that the actual nature of the machine has transformed into another medium similar to paint or marble leaving unlimited opportunities for the artist to express his or her imaginations. Once we give our imagination the upper hand in the process, the guiding priority, we will experience the difficulties to master this new medium, to create what is in our imagination rather than using the automation capabilities of the machine. Regardless of the outcome, computer art can only be considered art as long as it goes back to our intentions, feelings and imaginations. Otherwise the particular artwork is a product of the software rather than the actual artist. It is therefore of great importance to develop our own artistic capabilities to their full extent and to learn as much as we can to master the characteristic features of this medium. After all, it is the human creativity that distinguishes the product.

Although the main focus of the artistic work is given to the personal expression of the artist, Thomas H. Jäkel also creates

* company logos

* newspaper front page design

* commercial illustrations

The artwork uses different programs such as Adobe Creative Suite with Photoshop and Illustrator as the main elements as well as Corel Painter, and Lightwave, Poser and Bryce for 3D creations and other programs such as ZBrush for additional effects.

The basis of the pictures and illustrations usually is a pencil drawing from which the entire artwork grows. It is this discrepancy of visual appearance that provides the pictures with a very individual touch and peculiarity that is typical for the entire work.

On the following pages you will find more detailed information about his pictures, photographs and writings. Please visit the galleries to get your own impression about his artistic work. Please contact us if you need more information or if you are interested in buying some of the artwork.