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Manga Art: Inspiration and Techniques from an Expert Illustrator
The world of manga (Japanese comics) has captured the imagination of artists, both aspiring and professional alike. Now best-selling artist and art instructor Mark Crilley presents the most complete look yet at the variety of creative options available in the world of manga. Crilley fills each chapter with gorgeous, original artwork created with a variety of tools (pencils, colored pencils, digital art, pen and ink, and more) and in a variety of manga-inspired styles. He pairs each piece with information on the materials used and the inspiration that led to its creation. Manga Art provides readers a one-of-a-kind chance to hear from one of the leading artists in the field of manga instruction, as he reveals the unlimited possibilities of manga and the creative secrets behind over 100 pieces of original, never-before-seen artwork.
176 pages, Paperback
Published June 6, 2017
About the author
Mark Crilley
116 books370 followersMark Crilley is an American comic book creator and children's book author/illustrator. He is the creator of Miki Falls, Akiko, and Brody's Ghost. He is also noted for his instructional videos for drawing in the manga-style. Crilley distributes drawing advice to artists via YouTube videos and his DeviantArt account. In August 2010, he starred in some how to draw videos for Funimation on demand. Mark Crilley's wife is Miki Crilley who he named Miki Falls after. The two have a daughter, Mio, and a son, Matthew.
Link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Cri...
Link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Cri...
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
June 15, 2017
Upon picking up this book one might think it would be a step by step instruction manual on how to draw manga. That is not to be found here. What is found is look at an artist doing what he loves. Yes, there are prompts to try things out for yourself, but it is more a look at how you do not have to be Japanese to love this style of art, and create your own version of it. In the introduction Crilley, not only tells us he is Irish, but that he thought about what manga would like like in the hands of Klimt. In his chapter on sci-fi, he talks about the influence of Star-wars and Close Encounters of the Third kind. How he decides to create art, what materials he works, and what he does to put his own spin in Japanese style manga. An enjoyable book about a modern and compelling art style.
January 1, 2017
Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.
Thanks to NetGalley and Ten Speed Press for the opportunity to read and review Manga Art: Inspiration and Techniques from an Expert Illustrator by Mark Crilley! Mr. Crilley shares his story with his readers, encouraging artists everywhere. The beautiful artwork in this book will open up worlds for aspiring artists and I especially like the "your turn" sections that encourage artists to think outside the box and create out of their norm. I will purchase this book for the library where I work because I can see it being beneficial to many students. They will enjoy this book as much as I do- 5 stars for this nonfiction art instructional book!
Thanks to NetGalley and Ten Speed Press for the opportunity to read and review Manga Art: Inspiration and Techniques from an Expert Illustrator by Mark Crilley! Mr. Crilley shares his story with his readers, encouraging artists everywhere. The beautiful artwork in this book will open up worlds for aspiring artists and I especially like the "your turn" sections that encourage artists to think outside the box and create out of their norm. I will purchase this book for the library where I work because I can see it being beneficial to many students. They will enjoy this book as much as I do- 5 stars for this nonfiction art instructional book!
September 22, 2017
This book was so beautiful! By the time I finished reading it, I had sticky notes sticking out of it all over the place! That's the sign of a book your read and loved lots!!
I love how each drawing in here gets a start to finish discussion of how it came to be. He talked about techniques he used, gave ideas and challenges you as an artist to try new things. In fact, throughout the book, after he discusses the simple procedures he used to accomplish the result, there are boxes that say “Your Turn” encouraging you to try it out for yourself.
I personally have always loved manga art!! So I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to read and review this book, and add it to my collection.
~ I received this book from Blogging For Books for this review.
I love how each drawing in here gets a start to finish discussion of how it came to be. He talked about techniques he used, gave ideas and challenges you as an artist to try new things. In fact, throughout the book, after he discusses the simple procedures he used to accomplish the result, there are boxes that say “Your Turn” encouraging you to try it out for yourself.
I personally have always loved manga art!! So I’m so happy to have had the opportunity to read and review this book, and add it to my collection.
~ I received this book from Blogging For Books for this review.
December 27, 2016
My twelve (almost thirteen) year old daughter is obsessed with manga and art and loved this book. She has a sketchbook in her hand like I have a book in my hand (all the time). When I told her I had a book by Mark Crilley, she went fangirl on me. She loved it!
August 6, 2017
[Note: This book was provided free of charge by Blogging For Books/Watson-Guptill Publications. All thoughts and opinions are my own.]
Despite my own rather critical comments about my own art [1], I tend to be quite fond of art and manga art is definitely something I appreciate [2]. A few of my friends are quite talented at drawing manga art, and this book would definitely be of use for them, especially as it springs from the experience of someone who can rightly call himself an expert illustrator. Even those who do not consider themselves particularly proficient artists, though, can use this book as a way to appreciate good manga art and even draw some conclusions about how the techniques the author uses can be adapted to other media where one may be more skilled. It should be noted that the cover gives a good picture of the sort of materials that are to be found, in that there is a sketch of an adorable chibi girl, a picture of a lovely young woman on a Vespa bike as well as another sketch drawing of a man with dramatic wind-blown hair.
In terms of its contents, this short book of just over 150 pages is divided into several chapters based on the material included in it. First the author focuses on characters, whether or not they have a story involved, showing subcultures and an attention to mood and the imagining of a story as well as the repurposing of the author's other works. After that the author has a chapter on Japan in which he explores some of the cultural elements of Japanese traditional clothing as well as some of the more amusing tropes of manga art, like the schoolkid in a hurry with toast in his or her mouth rushing off to class. The author then turns to science fiction, showing drawings that help with the worldbuilding of science fiction in which one's drawing can play a part. Here again the author shows himself to be able to make fresh drawings from his existing body of work, and interested in unusual elements of science fiction that are distinctive. The author then turns to conceptual art after this, playing with color and shade and looking at neglected areas within manga like 1950's America and looking at weddings and readers of books, which many people can identify with. The last chapter is one on styleplay, in which the author shows himself very willing and able to work with other styles and create art that blends manga with other genres, including impressionistic art and the use of unfamiliar media. After this there is a short conclusion and index.
This book is especially useful in demonstrating how artists develop their art. For one, even the creation of isolated works themselves can prompt questions of what story these small pieces could be a part of, which could then lead to inspiration of further works. Likewise, if one has already invested a great deal of time or attention in worldbuilding, one can find great opportunities for making new niches within that existing world where one has already done a lot of work already and does not have to reinvent the wheel. Likewise, playing with thought experiments of various kind, including working with unfamiliar media or doing works after the style of other artists, can help one to get out of a rut and to have more artistic solutions to questions of narrative as well as possible commissions. Above all things, the author shows himself to be an expert illustrator because of his willingness to explore the unfamiliar and expand his own repertoire of stories and styles and areas of interest, which make one's life and work far more interesting to oneself and to others. Even for those of only modest artistic talent, these are techniques that are of use for artists in general.
[1] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
[2] See, for example:
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2011...
https://edgeinducedcohesion.blog/2017...
February 28, 2017
My Review:
Being an artist, I'm always looking at the new art how-to books. This one by Mark Crilley is absolutely beautiful! It's chock full of his beautiful drawings and easy conversational writing. He discusses his development as an artist and his development of art pieces. In fact, each drawing in here gets a start to finish discussion of its own from conception and attitude to last stroke. He even gives you, the reader some assignments to try out some things so that you can more deeply understand some of the ideas he's talking about. That's not to say you need to be an artist to enjoy this book. No way! Anyone who is interested in manga drawing will enjoy this book of fabulous drawings, even if you just want to thumb through and look without reading a word. But if you do, you will miss at least half the experience. Mark's words aren't technical to the point that a non-artist couldn't enjoy reading what he has to say. He's very interesting and amusing at times about his development as an artist and his approach to some of his pieces. About how he gets inspired to do some of these pieces.
I think my favorite piece in the whole book is The Painter. It's rather Norman Rockwell-ish in layout with the girl behind her canvas on the easel. But the possibilities of what could be on that easel are endless. And such a familiar setting for anyone who's ever spent a day painting a difficult subject.
So whether you're an artist or art lover, don't miss this wonderful book on June 6, 2017, when it hits the stores!
I was provided an eARC by NetGalley and Ten Speed Press in exchange for an honest review. I am not being compensated in any way. All opinions are fully my own.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
Being an artist, I'm always looking at the new art how-to books. This one by Mark Crilley is absolutely beautiful! It's chock full of his beautiful drawings and easy conversational writing. He discusses his development as an artist and his development of art pieces. In fact, each drawing in here gets a start to finish discussion of its own from conception and attitude to last stroke. He even gives you, the reader some assignments to try out some things so that you can more deeply understand some of the ideas he's talking about. That's not to say you need to be an artist to enjoy this book. No way! Anyone who is interested in manga drawing will enjoy this book of fabulous drawings, even if you just want to thumb through and look without reading a word. But if you do, you will miss at least half the experience. Mark's words aren't technical to the point that a non-artist couldn't enjoy reading what he has to say. He's very interesting and amusing at times about his development as an artist and his approach to some of his pieces. About how he gets inspired to do some of these pieces.
I think my favorite piece in the whole book is The Painter. It's rather Norman Rockwell-ish in layout with the girl behind her canvas on the easel. But the possibilities of what could be on that easel are endless. And such a familiar setting for anyone who's ever spent a day painting a difficult subject.
So whether you're an artist or art lover, don't miss this wonderful book on June 6, 2017, when it hits the stores!
I was provided an eARC by NetGalley and Ten Speed Press in exchange for an honest review. I am not being compensated in any way. All opinions are fully my own.
~ Judi E. Easley for Blue Cat Review
August 20, 2017
I'll admit, I sought out this book for my older sister, who is currently in her last year of college, studying Media Arts and Animation. While we're both fans of Manga, Anime, and art, this area is where she thrives so I'll be posting her thoughts on the book, in the viewpoint of an artist, down below:
"This book was an enjoyable read and had very nice concept art by the illustrator. I love the subjects that he covered throughout the book and the example illustrations that came with them. The illustrator not only had finished pieces he has done in the book, but concept art that lead to the creation of the finished work. How he transferred his ideas to paper and the media methods he used to make the pieces. The book did not feel too cluttered or overly spacious like other art books I have come across."
I agree with her statements above, having read the text and studied the art inside as well. My sister went further into detail, adding:
"His style is appealing to the eye and he makes great points about how the art process works and what was his inspiration behind them. As I flipped through the pages I can feel his passion for art resonating from the pages with his characters he‘d drawn. Unlike other art books, it didn’t teach in a step-by-step format, rather it talked about the subject at hand and his process of creating them. It felt like you were talking face-to-face with the artist and hearing all the projects they have done and learned from, while giving pointers from here and there about how an artist can accomplish close to the same effect he made with his pieces."
Based on her review, and my thoughts on the book, I would recommend this book to other art lovers, illustrators, and manga fans!
"This book was an enjoyable read and had very nice concept art by the illustrator. I love the subjects that he covered throughout the book and the example illustrations that came with them. The illustrator not only had finished pieces he has done in the book, but concept art that lead to the creation of the finished work. How he transferred his ideas to paper and the media methods he used to make the pieces. The book did not feel too cluttered or overly spacious like other art books I have come across."
I agree with her statements above, having read the text and studied the art inside as well. My sister went further into detail, adding:
"His style is appealing to the eye and he makes great points about how the art process works and what was his inspiration behind them. As I flipped through the pages I can feel his passion for art resonating from the pages with his characters he‘d drawn. Unlike other art books, it didn’t teach in a step-by-step format, rather it talked about the subject at hand and his process of creating them. It felt like you were talking face-to-face with the artist and hearing all the projects they have done and learned from, while giving pointers from here and there about how an artist can accomplish close to the same effect he made with his pieces."
Based on her review, and my thoughts on the book, I would recommend this book to other art lovers, illustrators, and manga fans!
May 6, 2017
I have a bit of an obsession with art how to books and this one is really great. I love that Mark Crilley took the time to explain his process and the thoughts behind each design he included in the book. Learning where the inspiration for a piece came from is always interesting and his tips and tricks in this book are really useful for anyone wanting to create a similar style of artwork.
I recommend reading this book (if you are reading a digital copy rather than a paper one) on a full colour device, since the greyscale images will not allow you to see the full effect of his colour choices. I started out reading on a kindle paperwhite and then switched to the fire so I could grasp what he was talking about in each example.
Crilley is a very talented artist and has a way of being so down to earth in his writing that you feel like you are talking to someone on your own level, regardless of where you are at in your own artistic pursuits. This book has a nice flow and teaches you a lot about manga and how to work your lines into a great finished piece of art.
This would be a great book for anyone wanting to learn more about manga, regardless of experience level.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
I recommend reading this book (if you are reading a digital copy rather than a paper one) on a full colour device, since the greyscale images will not allow you to see the full effect of his colour choices. I started out reading on a kindle paperwhite and then switched to the fire so I could grasp what he was talking about in each example.
Crilley is a very talented artist and has a way of being so down to earth in his writing that you feel like you are talking to someone on your own level, regardless of where you are at in your own artistic pursuits. This book has a nice flow and teaches you a lot about manga and how to work your lines into a great finished piece of art.
This would be a great book for anyone wanting to learn more about manga, regardless of experience level.
This review is based on a complementary copy from the publisher, provided through Netgalley. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2017
I adore MANGA ART INSPIRATION and TECHNIQUES from an EXPERT ILLUSTRATOR. It contains 5 sections. Characters, Japan, Science Fiction, Conceptual Art, Styleplay.
Mark Crilley, addresses drawing Characters from another world and also those down to earth.Telling us, he often thinks up a story to go along with the characters.
Many examples are provided with complete details. One I enjoy, is his beginning the image in graphite pencil, shading with brown marker, and then scanning into Photoshop for tinting and finally applying gouache highlights.
When drawing Japan. I like that he focuses on the history. And, when working on Science-Fiction, he uses many great movies as a bases and reminds reader's, sci-fi does not always need to look futuristic. In Conceptual Art he talks about his process and in Styleplay...ways in which artist mimick art styles.
Throughout the book are a variety of images which lure readers to get out the Bristol Board or at the very least a sketch pad. And, before you know it, you are inspired to use your own artistic freedom to create a manga-style image.
Reviewed for Blogging for Books.
Mark Crilley, addresses drawing Characters from another world and also those down to earth.Telling us, he often thinks up a story to go along with the characters.
Many examples are provided with complete details. One I enjoy, is his beginning the image in graphite pencil, shading with brown marker, and then scanning into Photoshop for tinting and finally applying gouache highlights.
When drawing Japan. I like that he focuses on the history. And, when working on Science-Fiction, he uses many great movies as a bases and reminds reader's, sci-fi does not always need to look futuristic. In Conceptual Art he talks about his process and in Styleplay...ways in which artist mimick art styles.
Throughout the book are a variety of images which lure readers to get out the Bristol Board or at the very least a sketch pad. And, before you know it, you are inspired to use your own artistic freedom to create a manga-style image.
Reviewed for Blogging for Books.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 26, 2017
This book proved to be not only educational to me, but also inspired me to doodle and let the sketching fly of the blank sheets of paper, but for me it was notebook lined papers… The wealth of the artistic journey taken by Mark Crilley and shared in the book was very fascinating to me. Every page contained technique, story behind it and the variety of challenges which reader can embrace during reading and art processes… Love his work… The artist always encourages for his reader to try new styles, new backgrounds, new colors, and new strokes. Combination of two different styles might bring some new and stunning results… or it may come disastrous! But it’s never revealed until one tries to risk it all in order to broaden the artistic view and discover new potential illustration.
August 26, 2017
As someone who reads manga and watches anime on a daily basis, this was a huge insight on how those drawings can come about. Mark Crilley provides us with his inspiration on starting this book of art along with how he came about tackling the art of manga.
With the information on the materials he used to draw, he shows all the pieces he created with details on their meanings, reasoning behind them, supporting evidence, dimensions, colors - everything in a simple, understandable format that even a beginner could comprehend.
Along with seeing how his style differs from others, you can also see the similarities that makes manga manga. This could inspire anyone to start drawing, which is a huge accomplishment in my opinion!
With the information on the materials he used to draw, he shows all the pieces he created with details on their meanings, reasoning behind them, supporting evidence, dimensions, colors - everything in a simple, understandable format that even a beginner could comprehend.
Along with seeing how his style differs from others, you can also see the similarities that makes manga manga. This could inspire anyone to start drawing, which is a huge accomplishment in my opinion!
February 5, 2017
Crilley does a wonderful job in his process of creating his drawings. The Japanese culture is richly infused with the aspect of manga drawings. Being as I'm not an artist the book was simple and easy to understand the simple procedures that Crilley used to create his manga. Drawing from inspiration from Star Wars, Akira, and other media Crilley has produced his own spin for his other books. From reading his simple descriptions on creating his manga it makes me want to start up drawing as a hobby. I've always wanted to create my own characters and reading this book has given me more motivation to learn how to draw.
June 20, 2017
Manga Art is more than just tips and techniques, it takes a peak into Mark Crilley's memories and workflow. The book is filled with invaluable information about the decision making process an artist undergoes before and after starting a new project.
I specially like the "Your turn" sections that encourage the reader to put into practice what you just learned. As a beginner artist, I believe that what makes this book special is that it lets you see an important side of the creation process that is often omitted in other books.
I specially like the "Your turn" sections that encourage the reader to put into practice what you just learned. As a beginner artist, I believe that what makes this book special is that it lets you see an important side of the creation process that is often omitted in other books.
July 25, 2017
This book is a fantastic and relaxing read full of beautiful and artistic work. Mark Crilley shows us some of his work as well as some information about the tools he used for each picture. I loved that he used lots of multimedia and even some simple illustrations. The fact that Mark can literally use nothing but a pencil and some paper and create such amazing characters is magic! I highly recommend this book for everyone of all ages.
August 8, 2017
My husband and I love Japanese art in any form. He got me interested in cartoons so I had to get this book for our collection. This book was great it showed slot of different cartoon styles. Very well done! Insight about each drawing and info why he drew that style, A real collectors book! Would make a great gift!!
November 12, 2017
I love the start to finish process about this book. Love the different techniques and thoughts.
December 11, 2018
I received this ARC from Net Galley in return for an honest review.
I came across 'Mastering Manga with Mark Crilley' an year ago and I was captivated by the easy and natural style depicted therein.
So, I was sure that this book would be as good if not better. And it did not disappoint at all. I'm sure it will remain one of my favourite Manga art books ever.
In this book, Mark Crilley, unleashes his full potential, and puts his heart onto every page. With beautiful sketches and illustrations (using traditional media and Photoshop), the book is divided into sections focusing on conceptual art, characters etc.
Where 'Mastering Manga with Mark Crilley' was a manual to drawing, Manga Art is an exploration of the wide world of Manga.
If I have to say what I loved most in this book, it is the 'The Sculptor". As he already mentions, it is a depiction of an artist at work, who does not know how much is left to do, but will go on anyway.
Highly Recommended.
More on my blog: https://soothingrays.wordpress.com
I came across 'Mastering Manga with Mark Crilley' an year ago and I was captivated by the easy and natural style depicted therein.
So, I was sure that this book would be as good if not better. And it did not disappoint at all. I'm sure it will remain one of my favourite Manga art books ever.
In this book, Mark Crilley, unleashes his full potential, and puts his heart onto every page. With beautiful sketches and illustrations (using traditional media and Photoshop), the book is divided into sections focusing on conceptual art, characters etc.
Where 'Mastering Manga with Mark Crilley' was a manual to drawing, Manga Art is an exploration of the wide world of Manga.
If I have to say what I loved most in this book, it is the 'The Sculptor". As he already mentions, it is a depiction of an artist at work, who does not know how much is left to do, but will go on anyway.
Highly Recommended.
More on my blog: https://soothingrays.wordpress.com
January 1, 2017
This is a lovely little book, written in a conversational style, expanding the merits of Manga art with illustrations and practice suggestions. One of my daughters collects Manga comics and another is a mature artist with a different style. I plan to give each a copy when it is published. It was a pleasure to review and relaxing, something to take along on a long trip and savor. I am even willing to try a little art since the author makes it so inviting.
December 6, 2016
*Thank you netgalley for the free copy*
This book was very different from the others signed by Crilley. Different but in a good way. In this you have the chance to learn about characters, conceptual art... etc but everything is done and explained in his particular way, and It feels like a little autobiography about his artistic journey.
This book was very different from the others signed by Crilley. Different but in a good way. In this you have the chance to learn about characters, conceptual art... etc but everything is done and explained in his particular way, and It feels like a little autobiography about his artistic journey.
March 31, 2017
Mark Crilley has been a fairly large influence in the American Manga scene and his newest work, 'Manga Art' is a fun culmination of his work and techniques.
While this is not an instruction manual for beginners, Crilley does provide details on how most of the pieces were created, often referencing one of his art tutorial videos on YouTube for instruction. He discusses the importance of light, pose research, and personal interpretation in a way that made me itch to grab my sketchbook. Each chapter has exercises/suggestions for the reader to explore their own creativity.
I particularly enjoyed the way the author discusses when he uses digital painting and techniques as opposed to traditional, as well as some of the finer details like where he applied gouache and why a specific colored pencil was used. The art that accompanies each section is beautiful and richly varied. The Japan and Science-Fiction chapters were my favorites, both being aesthetics that I greatly enjoy.
All in all, if you're into manga as either a reader or an artist, this will likely be a fun and inspirational read.
I received a free copy from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review, the opinions expressed are 100% my own.
While this is not an instruction manual for beginners, Crilley does provide details on how most of the pieces were created, often referencing one of his art tutorial videos on YouTube for instruction. He discusses the importance of light, pose research, and personal interpretation in a way that made me itch to grab my sketchbook. Each chapter has exercises/suggestions for the reader to explore their own creativity.
I particularly enjoyed the way the author discusses when he uses digital painting and techniques as opposed to traditional, as well as some of the finer details like where he applied gouache and why a specific colored pencil was used. The art that accompanies each section is beautiful and richly varied. The Japan and Science-Fiction chapters were my favorites, both being aesthetics that I greatly enjoy.
All in all, if you're into manga as either a reader or an artist, this will likely be a fun and inspirational read.
I received a free copy from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review, the opinions expressed are 100% my own.
Read
December 16, 2017As this was my first time trying out "Blogging for Books" I decided to pick something a little easier. And what could possibly be easier than a book that is mostly pictures! I actually tried my hand at some of the techniques the showed in the book, and I wasn't half bad. ( I won't show you, I don't need to embarrass myself). I was a little disappointed that its not an instruction manual (I'm very inept at drawing), but more of an art lesson on Manga. Still, overall, it was a very good book! Maybe there is more to this author/artist that I need to research.
January 3, 2018
This is utterly unlike any manga book I've seen. I love the way that the photos are presented, and thoroughly enjoy reading about the artist and the origins of their artistry. I am always green with envy for those artists who so easily create manga, and for this reason, this book is essential reading for all those bugging manga-artists who want to improve on their own skills.
The book sets the context behind the sketches, and the artists inspiration, which brings their art to life, an encourages the reader to develop their own manga sketches, with helpful commentary from the author.
This book is a joy to read and a total inspiration.
The book sets the context behind the sketches, and the artists inspiration, which brings their art to life, an encourages the reader to develop their own manga sketches, with helpful commentary from the author.
This book is a joy to read and a total inspiration.
Did Not Finish
February 15, 2018More of an annotated sketch book of the author’s drawings than the how-to book I was looking for.
November 3, 2018
Such a beautiful book. I would love the hard copy because I’m certain it would be much better than the digital edition. I’m so glad I had a chance to experience this!
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews