A graphical input and display system for creating and manipulating image object(s) includes input devices permitting a user to select elements of image object(s) received from various image input sources. A processor, connected to the system, receives requests for various image editing operations and also accesses a user interaction module which enables the user to enter new image material or select and modify existing image material without pre-selecting an input mode. The system data memory structure includes a displayed objects data structure, and internal state data structure, and a selected material data structure.