Whether you’re an aspiring artist or just looking to express your creativity, anime drawing has something for everyone. From cute and playful characters to more serious and dramatic scenes, the genre offers a wide range of subjects to explore. In this post, we’ll dive into easy anime drawing ideas that cater to all levels and styles. One of the best things about anime drawing is its versatility. Depending on your subject matter, you can discover which style or genre suits you best.
Experimenting with different themes and techniques can also help refine your artistic skills and preferences. As an artist, I believe it’s essential to explore various genres and styles to grow and stay inspired. While not every project will be a masterpiece, the process of creating is what matters most. And who knows, you might just stumble upon a new favorite subject or genre!
If you’re interested in knowing which supplies I used while working on this post, feel free to scroll down for the list. From markers and pencils to colored pencils and crayons, I’ll share my entire arsenal of tools. This project is all about inclusivity, so whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, anime drawing is an excellent way to express yourself and connect with others who share your passion.
Teddy Bear
Starting with a teddy bear as the subject matter offers a warm and inviting canvas to work with, allowing for endless creative possibilities. What’s truly special about this beloved character is its adaptability – from one drawing to the next, the same bear can be reimagined in countless ways, making it an exciting and engaging theme to explore.
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Cracking Egg
When it comes to creating a captivating composition in your drawings, incorporating movement can be a game-changer. One way to do this is by adding an action element that brings your subject to life. For instance, depicting an egg cracking open with a tiny chick emerging is a delightful and accessible starting point for exploring movement-oriented drawing. To take it to the next level, consider introducing visual interest through patterns or unexpected colors in the shell or hatchling’s plumage.
Gotta Catch ‘Em All
For enthusiasts of the Anime genre, certain shows or stories are undeniably essential viewing. A phrase that resonates strongly is ‘musts,’ a concept that can be applied to various forms of entertainment. Take, for instance, the iconic and widely popular franchise Pokémon, which has captivated audiences across multiple mediums – television, video games, and more. The sheer depth and breadth of this beloved series can keep fans engaged in creative activities like drawing for extended periods.
Stretching Beans
When it comes to anime, one thing that instantly captures my attention is its inherent cuteness. And there’s no better exemplification of this quality than those adorable stretching beans that bring a smile to my face. When doodling or creating art inspired by anime, I believe it’s essential to keep things simple and sweet, just like these lovable characters. Alternatively, you can add some whimsical patterns or pops of color to make your creation truly pop.
Frog in a Leaf Boat
Building upon the previous creative endeavour, we can now venture forth to explore another delightful concept – that of a frog at the helm of a whimsical vessel. This charming amphibian in a boat is an ideal subject for artists looking to express themselves freely. By modifying the shape of the boat, adjusting its mast, or even altering the frog’s hue, creatives can bring this whimsical scene to life with their unique touch.
Fox Girl
The world of anime is renowned for its boundless creativity, effortlessly blending the mysterious with the fantastical. This unique fusion allows artists and enthusiasts alike to bring their most imaginative concepts to life. From rendering a stunning fox-human hybrid to crafting a charming character donning a fox-inspired headband, the possibilities are endless and equally captivating. Ultimately, the scope of imagination is limited only by one’s creativity.
Pizza Cat
When it comes to creating engaging animal illustrations, starting with a familiar subject that combines cuteness with ease of drawing can be a winning formula. A popular food item like pizza, for instance, pairs perfectly with an animal due to its relatable appeal and simple design. The resulting combination is not only adorable but also visually appealing.
Building on this success, consider pairing another beloved food item with an animal that’s just as endearing, such as a dog and a cheeseburger.
Kodama
In the Shinto faith, Kodama spirits are believed to inhabit ancient trees, imbuing them with unique personalities. This concept sparks creativity for artists, as capturing these enigmatic beings on paper can be a fascinating exploration. Drawing inspiration from these tree-dwelling entities, incorporating techniques and ideas found in [tree drawing ideas] can lead to captivating artistic expressions.
Blushing Bunny
The humble blushing bunny has become an iconic subject in modern drawing, accessible to artists of all skill levels. To get started, consider sticking with a straightforward, adorable design like the one depicted above. Alternatively, you can opt for a more dynamic and playful rendition of this beloved creature.
Soot Sprite
Within the realm of Japanese animation, Studio Ghibli’s creations hold a special place in my heart. Specifically, the Soot Sprites from beloved films like My Neighbor Totoro and Spirited Away are endearing characters that capture my imagination. While they may not be the main protagonists, these lovable sprites take on significant yet supporting roles, offering guidance and assistance when needed. Their presence adds a touch of whimsy to the stories, making them all the more memorable.
Kitten Chomp
To add a playful touch to your scene, consider featuring a dynamic duo like this mischievous cat pair. The idea is simple yet effective: have one cat pounce on the other’s ear, creating a sense of excitement and energy. This lighthearted action can be replicated with any two characters, making it a versatile option for adding visual interest to your composition.
Cinnamoroll
Within the beloved Hello Kitty universe, Cinnamoroll stands out as a delightful and well-known character. While primarily associated with feline friends, this charming canine is an excellent choice for fans of the franchise who have a preference for dogs over cats.
Totoro Sprout
The delightful world of My Neighbor Totoro is home to many endearing characters, including the lovable Totoro Sprout. This small, yet captivating creature embodies simplicity and charm, making it an ideal addition to any artwork seeking to add a touch of whimsy.
Eyes
Anime eyes are undoubtedly a crucial aspect of the genre’s visual identity. The stylized designs that adorn characters’ faces offer a wealth of creative possibilities for artists and enthusiasts alike. In fact, the art of drawing anime eyes is an exercise in personal expression, as each individual’s interpretation can result in a one-of-a-kind piece. This flexibility is part of what makes anime eyes so captivating, allowing artists to bring their own unique perspective to the table.
Totoro with Leaf
One delightful option for a My Neighbor Toro-inspired drawing is Totoro himself, whose minimalist design and repeating patterns make him an ideal subject. You can include all of his companions from the film in your depiction, or keep them separate, leaving Totoro as the central figure. Alternatively, you could choose to feature just Totoro alone, or combine him with some of the other endearing characters from the movie.
Four Chicks
Anime often defies conventions by constantly evolving and transforming. A perfect example of this phenomenon is [series name], which provides a unique opportunity to experiment with narrative structure.
Toadstool
The humble toadstool has become an iconic symbol in the world of anime. Its versatility has led to a wide range of depictions, from diminutive to towering, and even varying in shape and size. For those looking for a more specific inspiration, the lovable Toad from the Mario franchise is a great example. Moreover, these simple yet engaging mushroom drawings are not only easy to create but also loads of fun! The possibilities are endless, making them an excellent choice for anime enthusiasts.
Onigri
In addition to showcasing various cultures, anime also delves into the world of food, humanizing and often emphasizing its importance. This not only provides a unique window into Asian cuisine but also serves as an opportunity for viewers to explore unfamiliar dishes and snacks. To further enhance this aspect, consider dedicating a page or section to exploring different emotional expressions tied to food, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the various possibilities.
Blushing Boy
The unmistakable hallmark of anime is often characterized by characters exhibiting subtle yet endearing signs of embarrassment, such as blushing. This peculiarity can be utilized in various ways to create a relatable and engaging narrative. For instance, you could apply this trait to the protagonist’s facial features, making their character more down-to-earth and authentic.
Girl with Hearts
The emotional spectrum in this genre extends far beyond mere blushing. In fact, the more unique and pronounced emotions, the better. Another excellent illustration of this can be seen in subjects adorned with hearts, which serve as a tangible representation of their emotional state.
Faceless
From the imaginative world of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away, we find Faceless – an intriguing character that serves as a refreshing contrast to overly emotional characters. This curious creature has the unique ability to bring excitement and versatility to various drawings. To take your creativity to the next level, consider pairing him with one of his movie counterparts or combining him with a random image, allowing for endless possibilities and combinations.
Girl with Sunglasses
For those seeking a protagonist that embodies both whimsy and intrigue, a character donning sunglasses could be the ideal fit. This enigmatic figure can be portrayed in various ways – as a symbol of nonchalance, or even as the central figure in an entire scene. The possibilities are endless, and the outcome is sure to captivate your audience.
Hair Buns
One of the most striking aspects of human characterisation in anime is their distinctive style. This can manifest in various ways, from clothing and makeup to haircuts and accessories. In fact, experimenting with different hairstyles on a dedicated page can be an excellent option for artists of all kinds, regardless of their medium or skill level.
Haku
One of the most iconic characters in Spirited Away is Haku, whose straightforward design makes him an excellent subject for drawing. His simple yet distinctive silhouette, coupled with thoughtful details, makes him a delight to recreate on paper.
My Melody
From the iconic Sanrio universe, My Melody stands out as one of the most adorable characters alongside Hello Kitty, Badtz-Maru, and Keroppi. Her charm extends beyond her irresistible cuteness, as she’s also remarkably accessible to draw, making her a favorite among fans and artists alike.
Annoyed Girl
In the world of storytelling, emotive characters are an integral part of the narrative, regardless of their emotional state. Whether they’re radiating joy, exuding excitement or conveying annoyance, emotions bring depth and authenticity to a character’s portrayal. The key is to allow all emotions to shine through on a subject’s face, with no attempt to hide or tone down even the most prominent feelings.
Happy Girl
In harmony, we strive to strike a balance by introducing a joyful female character. This can be achieved by placing her in a scenario where she’s surrounded by positivity or by depicting her as content and fulfilled on her own terms. The choice of symbol to represent the girl is open-ended, allowing you to select an element that resonates with your artistic vision.
Calcifer
In the whimsical world of Hayao Miyazaki’s Howl’s Moving Castle, Calcifer is an endearing Ghibli character that plays a pivotal role in the narrative. Despite its diminutive size, this tiny but mighty being has a profound impact on the story, serving as a driving force that propels the plot forward.
Cat in a Hole
The charm of cats is undeniable, and when they do something ridiculously cute, it’s impossible not to be captivated. Imagine adding an unexpected accessory to their head – perhaps a leaf, a shoe, or even buried treasure. This quirk has become a staple in anime art, allowing for endless creativity and visual interest.
Pusheen
Pusheen, a beloved anime character, has gained widespread recognition in recent times. The endearing and comical feline’s ability to effortlessly navigate any situation with humor makes it an ideal subject for artistic expression. Whether you’re looking to hone your drawing skills or practice with a character from a popular series, Pusheen is an excellent choice. Its adaptability, playful nature, and ease of depiction make it a wonderful canvas for creativity.
Geisha
For a creative spark, consider exploring additional adorable drawing concepts. Take inspiration from the following list, where you’ll discover even more delightful and fun ideas to unleash your artistic side.
