Intentionally [[distortion|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).

h4. Examples
* !post #7777879: A hand-drawn "smudge" effect"
* !post #7763567: Used to employ [[horror (Theme)|]] elements
* !post #4508429: Used as an [[censored identity]]

h4. See also
* [[Image warping]]
smudge tool