As the sun sets on another summer, I find myself reflecting on the evolution of my passion for drawing, which has blossomed into something far more meaningful than mere doodles on scraps of paper. n this third installment of my blog series, I want to share the challenges and breakthroughs I’ve encountered along the way, particularly in the wake of some setbacks I faced with AI character generation tools and how these experiences have shaped my artistic process.
Rediscovering My Passion
It’s been a few months since I first immersed myself in the world of manga creation, and my passion for drawing has only intensified. However, my journey took a frustrating turn when I attempted to use an AI tool called Skyreels to generate characters for my manga. Initially, it seemed like a brilliant solution, offering me a way to visualize my ideas. Yet, when Skyreels changed its entire format, I lost access to the characters I had created and, consequently, some money I had invested in their services.
This was a tough pill to swallow, especially as I had been relying on that tool to jumpstart my creative process. I explored other AI image generators, but each felt limited and flawed in its own right. It was at this low point that I made a pivotal decision: I would return to my roots and dedicate myself fully to the craft of drawing, character design, and storytelling—without relying on technology to fill in the gaps.
The Birth of My Practice Manga
After making this decision, I worked diligently and published a practice manga a month ago. While I was pleased with my progress, I also recognized that I had a long way to go before reaching the proficiency of seasoned mangaka. This experience motivated me to reflect deeply on my artistic journey and the lessons I’ve learned so far.
1. Crafting a Personal Process
One of the first hurdles I faced was understanding that I needed to develop a unique process tailored to my skills and workflow. For a long time, I found myself frustrated by the fact that I couldn’t replicate the processes of other mangaka artists. It became clear that my journey required a step-by-step approach that worked for me.
I started by creating concept sketches to brainstorm my ideas. This initial phase allowed me to freely explore different character designs and scenarios without the pressure of perfection. I then introduced transfer paper into my workflow to create layered concept designs, which helped me refine my sketches. This method proved invaluable in ensuring that my lines remained clear, preventing my eyes from blurring the sketch lines and the final product. The result? A far more polished and professional-looking manga.
2. Writing an Effective Script
Next on my list was the daunting task of writing an effective script. Initially, I approached this part of the process with some trepidation, thinking it was a secondary consideration to the visuals. However, I quickly learned that a solid script should lay the foundation for the artwork, particularly if I aimed to create a complete manga.
I began drafting scripts from scratch, but as I progressed, I found myself frequently adding and subtracting details to align with my artistic skill level. This iterative approach allowed me to strike a balance between a compelling narrative and visual storytelling, paving the way for stronger character development and plot progression.
3. Confronting the Challenge of Perspective
One of the most persistent challenges in my artistic journey has been mastering perspective. I’ve often dreaded the task of understanding vanishing points, horizon lines, depth and perception, and foreshortening. Ignoring these aspects was no longer an option, as they are crucial for engaging an audience.
In my first manga, I neglected to properly apply these principles, and the results were glaring. As I prepared for my next practice piece, I committed to relearning perspective techniques. I delved into tutorials, studied reference materials, and even sketched from life to better understand how perspective works in various settings. I’m excited to apply these lessons in my upcoming work, as I know they’ll greatly enhance the visual experience for my readers.
4. Refining My Inking Process
Inking has also been a focal point of my artistic development. After completing my first manga, I realized that my inking skills needed significant improvement. To address this, I invested in various tools, including quill pens, dip pens, and fude pens. Each tool offered a unique texture and line quality, allowing me to experiment and discover my preferred styles.
Although my lines are still not perfect, I’ve dedicated countless hours to practicing inking techniques. I’ve watched tutorials, studied the work of other artists, and practiced regularly. Each attempt, even the imperfect ones, has taught me something valuable about line work, shading, and expression in my drawings.
5. Researching and Developing My Own Style
Perhaps the most rewarding aspect of my journey has been the research I’ve engaged in to develop my own artistic style. I’ve immersed myself in reading manga and watching anime, analyzing the elements that resonate with me and those that inspire me. This exploration has helped me cultivate a distinctive style that reflects my voice as an artist.
The blend of visual storytelling and character development in the works of established mangaka has been both enlightening and motivating. I’ve taken notes, sketched scenes inspired by these works, and tried to incorporate various techniques into my own pieces. As I continue to evolve as an artist, I can see my unique voice emerging more clearly.
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter in Color
As we move into October, I feel a wave of excitement for what lies ahead. With the foundational skills I’ve developed over the past months, I am eager to explore the world of color. I’ve decided to experiment with colored pencils and possibly watercolors for my next practice pieces.
Color has the potential to transform my artwork, adding depth and emotion that black and white alone cannot convey. I’m both nervous and thrilled about this new endeavor, but I believe that this step will allow my characters and scenes to come to life in a new way.
Conclusion
Reflecting on my journey so far, I am filled with gratitude for the challenges and lessons that have shaped me as an aspiring mangaka. From refining my artistic process to understanding the intricacies of perspective and inking, each experience has been a stepping stone toward my goal.
As I continue to work on The Dark Ichalocha of Terres Nei, I remain committed to growth and exploration in my art. I hope to inspire others who share similar dreams to embrace their passions, learn from their setbacks, and carve out their unique paths in the world of manga.
Thank you for joining me on this journey! I look forward to sharing more of my experiences, lessons, and artworks in the future. Here’s to the ongoing adventure of becoming a mangaka!
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