Gain insights into computer graphics with Python's Pycairo library. Learn about pixel vs. vector graphics, create complex shapes, work with transforms, text, gradients, and more for VR and game development.

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Pycairo

In this course, you will use Python’s Pycairo library to draw complex shapes. So if you have an appetite for virtual reality, or game development, then this course will serve you well.

You will start with basic concepts like: What is the difference between pixel and vector graphics? After that, you will learn to make basic drawings and then you will move on to complex shapes. Throughout, you will cover important concepts like transform and state, working with text, gradients, and a whole lot more.

By the time you finish this course, you will have a powerful new library at your disposal, and you’ll be able to construct beautiful graphics that users will love.

Computer Graphics in Python and Pycairo

# What does flipping do?
**Flipping**, or **mirroring**, flips the whole user space around a line to reverse shapes.

## Flip along the y-axis
In Pycairo, we can play around with different transformations to achieve different tasks. Here is an example of a flip along the y-axis:

The red arrow is formed from the points `(100, 200)`, `(200, 300)`, and `(100, 400)`. Normally, it would point from left to right (this is shown by the dashed outline in device space).

However, since we flipped user space around the line `x = 300` (shown as the dashed line), the arrow now points from right to left.

The basic mirroring operation is performed by using an `x` scale factor of -1. This will mirror user space over the y-axis  and place our arrow shape to the left of the y-axis, which is located off the page. To flip a shape about the line `x = 600`, we need to translate the shape like this:


Introduction

Introduction to Vector Graphics

Basic Drawing Operations

Paths and Complex Shapes

Computer Color

Transforms and State

Working with Text

Gradients and Image Fills

Clipping, Masking and Compositing

Surfaces and Output Formats

Integration with Other Libraries

Conclusion

Flipping

What does flipping do?

Flip along the y-axis