Secrets of Mastery: Interviews with Professional Anime Artists

March 19, 2023

Anime is not just a popular genre; it's an entire culture with unique artistic techniques and traditions. We spoke with several renowned anime artists to uncover the secrets of their craft and share them with you.

Starting Out

All the artists agreed that it's important to start with the basics of drawing: anatomy, perspective, composition. "The basics are very important, even if you're drawing something stylized like anime," says Haruko Tamashi, an artist with 15 years of experience in the industry.

Study the Classics

"Many think that anime is a departure from classical art, but that's not true," claims Yamato Nagasaki, creator of popular series. Artists recommend studying the works of the great masters and adapting classical techniques to modern anime trends.

Character Development

Creating characters is a key element in anime. "Each character should be unique, having their own backstory," shares Kaiko Miura. Artists advise keeping journals for characters, accumulating all information about them, from biographies to favorite phrases.

Style and Details

"Details are crucial for creating a convincing world," says Haruko. She recommends paying attention to background elements that help set the scene's atmosphere. However, it's important not to overload the picture so that viewers can focus on the main characters.

Inspiration and Ideas

Sources of inspiration can vary widely, from classic literature to everyday situations. "I observe people, their expressions and gestures, which inspires me to create characters," notes Yamato.

Technology and Tools

Modern technology plays a significant role in creating anime. Artists use graphic tablets and animation software to speed up the process and achieve high-quality images. "Don't be afraid to experiment with new tools," advises Kaiko.

Tips for Beginners

Artists agree that beginners should not be afraid to make mistakes. "Draw every day, receive feedback, and learn from your mistakes," recommends Haruko. It's also important to maintain a passion for drawing, despite potential challenges. These tips from professionals will help anyone dreaming of mastering the art of creating anime characters, take their first steps, and continue to develop in this direction.