How to Make Manga Secret #1 – Read comics
- At June 29, 2011
- By Laur
- In blog, tips
- 3
And not just manga either!
Dropped by the library today and found a bunch of comics that caught my eye so I just had to nab them!
In his memoir on writing, Stephen King said there were two things you needed to do as a writer: read a lot and write a lot. Now, I’m liberally applying this philosophy to making comics. I just don’t think it’s possible to create art without being able to appreciate or learn from what’s already out there. Besides, if you want to be a part of the industry, shouldn’t you actually like the stuff?
The way I see it, reading comics and letting it move you (whether a particular piece of work inspires you, pisses you off, or disappoints you) helps you grow as an artist. If you see a panel with gorgeous perspective in it, maybe let it push you to work on your perspective skills. Or if a comic artist uses a much different inking style from yours, why not try it and see if it’s something you can incorporate into your own work? This kind of creative stealing is helpful because it pushes a fairly generic style (something most manga artists begin with) to something that is more personal, and unique: a blended product of influences
Consequently, if you’re frustrated by the story for instance (thank goodness for libraries’ try-before-you-buy perks), you can analyze what isn’t working and make sure you avoid them for your own stories.
Looking forward to reading this haul over the weekend in the Bay Area. Hope everyone has a happy holiday, travel safe and read comics!
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Here’s another batch with more of a manga flavor from May I forgot to upload.