Canvas 5

Even better is the way that Canvas has seamlessly integrated painting and drawing. For example, the various shape and text tools are automatically rendered and anti-aliased if drawn within a bitmap.

Other integrated features are the ability to mask images and the ability to pick up a colour from a bitmap for applying to vector elements or text. Best of all is the fact that the usual multiple levels of undo are available when photo editing - something Photoshop itself still doesn't offer. Through creative integration like this, Canvas becomes more than just the sum of its parts and points the way to the future for all computer-based graphic work.

By this stage you're probably thinking that there has to be a catch - probably a lack of output options, as in previous innovative programs like Xara and Expression. However, Canvas offers comprehensive control, with integrated trapping on a global and object basis, and advanced colour separation capabilities including grey colour removal and CMYK gamut warnings. But for commercial printing, you may find it hard to find a typesetter with Canvas installed, although Deneba clearly intends the program to be taken seriously as a high-end professional solution.

Of course, the program has some weaknesses. The interface, although carefully thought out, takes a lot of getting used to. And in terms of functionality there are inevitably many areas that could be improved. To compete with the best in each of its fields, Canvas would have to add control over charting, tables, animations, transparency, lens effects, story editing and photo composition.

To call Canvas a jack of all trades and master of none would be unfair on two counts, however. To begin with it would suggest that the program is under-powered when it's anything but - particularly in its two strongest areas of vector illustration and bitmap photo editing. Second, it will always be unfair to judge each aspect of the program against the equivalent top-of-the-range dedicated program.

Canvas should be judged on its own terms. By breaking down the artificial barriers between different types of computer graphic, it creates its own category as the first truly integrated and complete design solution. Best of all, however, is the price. If you're already using a graphics package and want to switch over to Canvas, a competitive upgrade will cost you a mere £139 plus VAT. With this much power and versatility on tap, Canvas is a great buy, especially if you've only dabbled in graphics so far.

Author: Tom Arah