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.

Computer graphics in Python by Martin McBride_468 x 60.png

pycairo.tar.gz

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

# Rotating user space
**Rotation** turns the user coordinate system, through a fixed angle about the origin. We can use this to draw shapes at different orientations, without changing the drawing code.

We use the `rotate` method of the `Context` to perform the rotation:
```
ctx.rotate(math.pi/6)
ctx.rectangle(300, 200, 200, 100)
```
>After rotating by $pi/6$, the coordinate space is rotated by 30 degrees about the origin `(0, 0)`.

By default, the rotation is clockwise. If the user space was mirrored once, then, the rotation will be counter-clockwise.

In the diagram below, we can see the effect of rotation on the red rectangle drawn with user space parameters `(300, 200, 200, 100)`. For illustration, the dashed outline shows where the rectangle would appear without rotation.

Learn about rotation in Pycairo, in this lesson.

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

Rotation

Rotating user space