Hi. I have been trying to use GIMP for a long time, and I am trying to create artwork using layers. I have an image underneath that is the guide for the drawing layer.
But I continuously run into issues with super complex features that are effectively hidden, and while I know they would be very useful to artists with plenty of training on the software, all I need to do is simple pixel editing, lines and ovals. But transparent pixels, masks and dozens of other features that are apparently easy to trigger, but really hard to find.
Can’t there be a neophyte mode that keeps things simple, so I can spend more time drawing than I do trying to find out why tools stopped working?
Unfortunately what you may be looking for is a different program altogether, although once you introduce multiple layers there’s always going to be extra complexity. Drawy, mtpaint, mypaint may not go far enough for your needs. GIMP and Krita may go further than you want. LibreOffice Draw is not aimed at artists. Tuxpaint and Kolourpaint are very basic. (e.g. i think mtpaint only has image-sized layers although i could be wrong - their use case is clearly making GIF animations).
In audio terms you are faced with the choice between a ghetto blaster and a complicated hifi system…
You may also find some browser-based drawing programs work for you, and of course we’re also happy to answer questions around using GIMP. But it may be a case of e.g. watching some youtube tutorials on GIMP from someone like Steve Davies Media Design or whatever.