Alchemy is an open source drawing software exploring new ways to sketch, draw, and create on computers. It’s intentionally not for creating finished artwork, but rather a sketching environment that focuses on the very early stages of the creative process. Experimental in nature, Alchemy lets you brainstorm visually to explore an expanded range of ideas and possibilities in a serendipitous way.
The Alchemy drawing canvas has an intentionally reduced level of functionality. No undo, no selecting, and no editing. Interaction focuses instead on the output of a great number of good, bad, strange and beautiful shapes. For impression of outcomes, check out these videos.
Unfortunately, Alchemy isn’t developed or maintained any more. This doesn’t impact so much on the actual use of the software (so far), but affects in particular all documentation and support – which essentially doesn’t exist. The best overview at this point is provided by enthusiasts. Any new user will have to rely on tutorial videos on Youtube or find their own way.
The latest release of Alchemy available for download is from 2010, i.e. a little dated already, but it still works on most Macs, Windows and Linux.
Link:
Alchemy
Provider:
Karl D.D. Willis and Jacob Hina, supported Exploratory Software Project (Japan)
Costs:
free
Tutorial (by third party):
here
