Intentionally distorting an image with an effect similar to smudging one's finger across the page, causing colors and shapes to distend across the image.
This may give a Melting or Dissolving effect.
In digital art, this is usually achieved with a smudge tool (or 'smear tool'). However, the smudge effect may also be drawn manually, in a manner that mimics the tool (Example 1).
Examples
- A hand-drawn "smudge" effect"
- Used to employ Horror (Theme) elements
- Used as an Censored Identity