How To Draw 80s Anime Style?

Learning how to draw 80s anime style opens a world of creativity and nostalgia. This unique art style has captivated audiences and artists alike, blending vibrant colors, dynamic poses, and expressive characters. Whether you're a novice or an experienced artist, mastering this style can elevate your artistic skills significantly.

Understanding the 80s Anime Aesthetic

To effectively learn how to draw 80s anime style, you must first understand its aesthetic characteristics. This period of animation is marked by several defining traits.

Key Characteristics of 80s Anime

• Bold Line Work: Thick lines outline characters and objects, giving them a distinct presence.
• Vibrant Color Palettes: The use of bright and saturated colors sets the tone for emotional storytelling.
• Large, Expressive Eyes: Characters often have oversized eyes to convey emotions dramatically.
• Dynamic Poses: Action scenes are depicted with exaggerated movement, enhancing the sense of motion.
• Unique Hairstyles: Characters frequently sport stylized hair, often defying gravity and common hairstyles.

Essential Tools for Drawing in 80s Anime Style

Having the right tools is crucial when learning how to draw 80s anime style. Here are some essential materials you might consider:

Drawing Materials

• Pencils: Use a variety of pencils (HB, 2B, etc.) for sketching and shading.
• Inking Pens: Fine-tipped pens or markers help produce clean, bold lines.
• Coloring Supplies: Alcohol markers, colored pencils, or digital software for vibrant coloring.

Digital vs. Traditional Media

Decide whether you'd like to work traditionally or digitally. Each medium has advantages—for instance, digital tools allow for easy corrections and a wider range of coloring options, while traditional mediums provide a tangible experience.

Steps to Draw Your First 80s Anime Character

Follow these steps to create your own character in the iconic 80s anime style.

1. Sketching the Basic Outline

Start by drawing a simple stick figure to establish the pose. Once you're satisfied, begin adding shapes for the head, torso, arms, and legs. Ensure proportions are accurate, focusing on the distinctive larger head size common in anime.

2. Defining Facial Features

Next, refine the face. Place guidelines for the eyes, nose, and mouth. Remember to make the eyes large and expressive, as this is a hallmark of 80s anime. Draw the eyebrows with emphasis to convey emotion.

3. Adding Hair and Clothing

Hair is a critical element in defining your character's style. Create a flowing hairstyle that fits the character's personality. When designing clothing, look for inspiration from popular 80s fashion to align with the anime aesthetic.

4. Finalizing the Drawing

Once the basic shapes and features are complete, go over your sketch with an inking pen. Carefully outline the character while maintaining the bold line work characteristic of 80s anime. Erase any pencil marks after the ink dries.

5. Color Your Character

Select a vibrant color palette to fill in your character. Use shading techniques to add depth, such as darker shades around areas where light wouldn’t reach. Experiment with color gradients to reflect the flamboyant style of the era.

Practicing Techniques for Improvement

To become proficient in how to draw 80s anime style, regular practice is essential. Here are some techniques that can aid your improvement:

Study Classic Anime

Analyze classic 80s anime series like "Akira" and "Robotech." Observe their character designs, color usage, and scene compositions. Try recreating scenes or character poses to deepen your understanding of the style.

Mastering Anatomy and Proportions

Understanding human anatomy is vital. Study the proportions specific to 80s anime and practice drawing different poses. Resources such as anatomy books can provide valuable insight.

Engage with the Community

Join online forums, social media groups, or local art clubs dedicated to anime art. Sharing your work and receiving feedback can significantly accelerate your growth as an artist.

Conclusion

Learning how to draw 80s anime style combines understanding aesthetics, honing your technical skills, and consistent practice. By following this guide, utilizing proper tools, and engaging with the artistic community, you'll be well on your way to creating captivating anime art reminiscent of the beloved 80s era. Embrace your creative journey and enjoy the process!