Akira Toriyama: How to Draw Manga Like a Master

Akira Toriyama, the legendary creator of Dragon Ball and Dr. Slump, is celebrated for his distinctive art style and ability to craft compelling stories. His works have inspired countless aspiring manga artists, who often wonder how to draw manga in the style of Toriyama. Fortunately, Toriyama himself has shared tips and techniques through his works, including Hetappi Manga Kenkyūjo (The Clumsy Manga Laboratory), a guide co-authored with his assistant Akira Sakuma.

This article explores Akira Toriyama’s approach to drawing manga, key lessons from his guidebook, and tips for those aiming to follow in his artistic footsteps.

Akira Toriyama’s Approach to Manga Art

1. Distinctive Character Designs

• Toriyama’s characters are instantly recognizable due to their:
  • Simple yet expressive features: Large eyes, dynamic hair designs, and distinct facial expressions.
  • Clear silhouettes: Each character has a unique shape and design, making them stand out.
  • Attention to detail: From costumes to accessories, Toriyama ensures his designs are memorable without being overly complicated.

2. Dynamic Action and Poses

• Toriyama excels in illustrating motion, which brings action scenes to life. His use of exaggerated poses and clear linework conveys energy and impact, making battles in Dragon Ball iconic.

3. World-Building Through Art

• In addition to characters, Toriyama’s environments are vibrant and imaginative, blending futuristic technology with natural landscapes. His ability to create immersive worlds adds depth to his storytelling.

Key Lessons from Hetappi Manga Kenkyūjo

1. Start with the Basics

• Toriyama emphasizes mastering foundational techniques, such as:
  • Drawing clean lines: Practice precision to ensure clarity in your artwork.
  • Proportions: Understand the anatomy of the human body to create believable characters.
  • Perspective: Use perspective to give depth to your scenes, whether drawing buildings or action sequences.

2. Panel Layout and Composition

• Effective paneling is crucial for storytelling. Toriyama advises:
  • Using varied panel sizes to emphasize important moments.
  • Keeping the layout simple and easy to follow to maintain readers’ focus.

3. Practice Makes Perfect

• Toriyama highlights the importance of regular practice. Experimenting with different styles, techniques, and concepts helps improve skills over time.

Tips for Drawing Manga in Toriyama’s Style

1. Focus on Expressive Characters

• Create characters with unique personalities and features. Use facial expressions and body language to convey emotion and tell a story visually.

2. Balance Simplicity and Detail

• While Toriyama’s characters often have clean, simple designs, they include enough detail to make them memorable. Strike a balance that suits your style.

3. Learn to Draw Action

• Study Toriyama’s action sequences for inspiration. Practice drawing dynamic poses and exaggerating movements to create impactful scenes.

4. Develop Unique Worlds

• Take inspiration from Toriyama’s imaginative settings. Mix futuristic elements, nature, and humor to create engaging environments.

Tools of the Trade

1. Traditional Tools

• Toriyama began his career using traditional tools such as G-pens, ink, and screentones. These tools are excellent for mastering linework and shading.

2. Digital Art

• While Toriyama’s earlier works were created traditionally, aspiring artists can use digital tools like drawing tablets and software to mimic his style while benefiting from modern conveniences.

Toriyama’s Influence on Manga Creation

1. Inspiring a New Generation

• Many professional manga artists credit Toriyama as a major influence on their work. His ability to blend humor, action, and heart makes his style timeless.

2. A Teaching Legacy

• Through Hetappi Manga Kenkyūjo and his published works, Toriyama continues to inspire and educate aspiring artists around the world.

Conclusion: Drawing Manga the Toriyama Way

Akira Toriyama’s approach to manga combines creativity, technical skill, and a passion for storytelling. By focusing on expressive characters, dynamic action, and immersive worlds, he has set a standard for excellence in the medium. For those looking to draw manga like Toriyama, his teachings and works provide invaluable guidance.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a fan of his creations, exploring Toriyama’s art is a journey into the mind of a master. With dedication and practice, you too can bring your unique vision to life—just as Toriyama has done for decades.

ライト

鳥山明さんの大ファン

鳥山明さんの作品をこよなく愛するドラゴンボールが好きな漫画オタクです。世の中のアニメ全般が好きで、クリエイターの皆様を応援しています。