08-01-2012, 08:29 PM
The thing is, chibbis' are actually complex but appear simple. That's the magic to them. They're meant purely to convey emotion in the most extreme measure, they're not meant to but the typical drawing style. The only reason most manga/anime beginning artists gravitate towards them is because they convey an that "japanese" art style they're all after but appear as if they don't take too much effort or skill. Which is really not the case, I can say this with a little bit of authority because I was there myself back in middle school.
I highly suggest, Gaia, that you use some online anatomy tutorials and copy the diagrams, or even copy old master works(nude models, no clothing, clothing is too complex to start with) I suggest; Durer, Da Vinci and Rubens (personal favorites of mine, but really go for any of the greats that you admire!). Also get some anatomy books to to teach you the basics of constructive anatomy I'll bring up what I always do and sound like a broken record but it's truly an invaluable resource (that I need to dust off and use again/find where I put) "Bridgman's Life drawing", it's really all you need. If you want to learn muscle groupings and their functions (which is also incredibly useful!) Grab a copy of "Richter's Artistic Anatomy"(I know this is redundant since I always say it, or well used to but these books are all anyone really needs.)
Figures' are actually pretty simple once you learn the general measurement rules and how to use schematic underlying groundwork. Yeah it's a lot of work and dedication but if you want to improve and actually learn how to draw well it's what you have to do.
I highly suggest, Gaia, that you use some online anatomy tutorials and copy the diagrams, or even copy old master works(nude models, no clothing, clothing is too complex to start with) I suggest; Durer, Da Vinci and Rubens (personal favorites of mine, but really go for any of the greats that you admire!). Also get some anatomy books to to teach you the basics of constructive anatomy I'll bring up what I always do and sound like a broken record but it's truly an invaluable resource (that I need to dust off and use again/find where I put) "Bridgman's Life drawing", it's really all you need. If you want to learn muscle groupings and their functions (which is also incredibly useful!) Grab a copy of "Richter's Artistic Anatomy"(I know this is redundant since I always say it, or well used to but these books are all anyone really needs.)
Figures' are actually pretty simple once you learn the general measurement rules and how to use schematic underlying groundwork. Yeah it's a lot of work and dedication but if you want to improve and actually learn how to draw well it's what you have to do.