What Is Pixel Art?

Pixel art is a form of digital art where images are created at the pixel level, typically on a very small canvas (16×16 to 128×128). Originating from early video games (NES, Game Boy), pixel art has experienced a major revival in indie games, NFTs, and social media content.

Getting Started

• Canvas size: Start small — 16×16 or 32×32 pixels
• Color palette: Limit yourself to 8-16 colors for a classic feel
• Tools: Pencil (1px), fill bucket, eraser

Basic Techniques

• Dithering: Create the illusion of a third color by alternating two colors in a checkerboard pattern
• Anti-aliasing: Add intermediate colors along diagonal edges to smooth them
• Pillow shading: Simple but effective light source simulation

Create Pixel Art Online

1. Open Pixel Art Maker.
2. Set your canvas size (start with 32×32).
3. Choose a color from the palette.
4. Click/drag pixels to draw.
5. Export as PNG — the tiny canvas becomes your high-res art when scaled up.