TryStrokes: Learning on a digital canvas to paint in the real world

In rural and tribal communities, producing handicrafts act as a source of supplementary income and a means to preserve the uniqueness of their arts and craft forms. Developing skills requires practise and knowledge of native techniques. In activities such as painting, skill in application of pressure and tilt of the brush are very important parameters that contribute to creating beautiful artwork. Technology can play a vital role in aiding to preserve traditional techniques and skills. In this paper we discuss the design of a software application that contains a skill database that stores expert brush stroke techniques and help the novice learn to apply the brush strokes by providing feedback based on the expert stroke. This computerised training solution is scalable, portable and cost effective.