Graphics Editor The Artist II by Bo Jangeborg

The Artist II, developed by Bo Jangeborg and published by SofTechnics in 1986, is a sophisticated graphics software for the ZX Spectrum. It builds upon its predecessor, The Artist, by integrating advanced features like icons, windows, and pull-down menus, which were typically found in more expensive computer systems at the time. This program leverages these elements to enhance user interaction, making it a highly user-friendly tool for graphic creation.

One of the key components of The Artist II is the PageMaker function, which allows users to create A4-sized print layouts by combining text and graphics. This feature is particularly useful for producing professional-looking documents such as reports and newsletters. Users can manipulate up to eight screenfuls of content, arranging them in a manner that corresponds to an A4 printout, thus facilitating desktop publishing tasks.

The software includes several integrated programs: the main Artist II graphics editor, a Sprite & Font Designer, a PageMaker, and a Screen Compressor. These tools collectively provide a comprehensive suite for creating and editing graphics, designing sprites, and managing screen data efficiently. The Sprite & Font Designer, for instance, enables the creation of custom sprites up to 6x6 character squares, which can be animated and manipulated in various ways.

Furthermore, The Artist II supports multiple input devices, including the Kempston and AMX mice, enhancing the precision and ease of graphic manipulation. This flexibility in input options, combined with its extensive feature set, makes The Artist II a powerful tool for both amateur and professional graphic designers using the ZX Spectrum platform.