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 SolidPattern do?
A `SolidPattern` creates a solid color fill. Here is the full code to draw an orange circle on a white background:

import cairo
import math

# Set up surface
surface = cairo.ImageSurface(cairo.FORMAT_RGB24, 400, 400)
ctx = cairo.Context(surface)
ctx.set_source_rgb(1, 1, 1)
ctx.paint()

# SolidPattern
pattern = cairo.SolidPattern(1, 0.5, 0)
ctx.set_source(pattern)
ctx.arc(200, 200, 100, 0, math.pi*2)
ctx.fill()

The `SolidPattern` constructor takes three values: `r`, `g`, and `b`, which set the RGB color of the solid fill. The parameters work in the same way as the `set_source_rgb` function, so the values `1`, `0.5`, and `0` set a color that has 100% red, 50% green, and no blue (which produces an orange color).

The diagram below shows how patterns work with paths to create the image. We can imagine the pattern as covering the whole of user space —stretching on forever in every direction. This is called the **source** and is set using the `set_source` function shown in the code above.

In this lesson, we'll learn about `SolidPattern` in Pycairo.

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

SolidPattern

What does SolidPattern do?