That's what you'll hear from the blathering otaku here in the US and across the world. If you aren't Japanese, you can't possibly draw manga.
In some aspects, I suppose that it true...Manga are Japanese comic books. They are drawn in Japan. They are distributed in Japan. So therefore, here in the US it would be impossible to create your own "manga."
Of course, you can create your own comic book! That's entire possible! Though you must have the time, money, skill, and time...and more time...and time...
Okay, seriously...Manga is just a comic book. It's like Spiderman, X-Men, Elfquest, etc. It's just created in Japan. The techinque and drawing styles are very different, but as a serious artist knows, it's possible to draw certain elements from others to enhance your performance. You think Picasso, Van Goh, or Monet weren't inspired by artifacts and other artists from the world? If you answer no, you're an idiot.
For those of us who understand art (which is what creating comics is about), we know that honing talent requires a person to draw all sorts of things and find something that is comfortable to them. In many art classes, instructors will have a student study various works of art and then have them create something of their own using those techinques. This is normal. This is common. This is okay.
So, for those who enjoy drawing "manga style" comics, there's nothing wrong with that. Don't listen to the frenizied otaku who think all things good and pure come from Japan (now I love Japan, this isn't a slam meant at the country or the people there). If you happen to be intreagued by Japanese style comics, study them, draw them, admire them! It's okay! Create your own style by practicing! There's nothing wrong with that!
However, don't just draw manga. Draw other things too. Try realistic drawings as well. Create sculptures (I love building things from junk). Study the elements of art so you understand them.
Most importantly, remember that not everyone is going to like what you do and they will criticize you. One of the main reasons I stopped posting fan art and other things on the net were because of the ungodly amount of morons lurking on forums. People who couldn't give constructive criticisim if it was posted on que cards...Most of these people don't have a lick of artistic talent (just look at the stuff they post) and are jealous. I apologize if this sounds concieted, but I'd like to point out that I am my worst critic. I HATE nearly every drawing or sculpture I do. In fact, I was so bad, my instructor in college would get so exhasperated with my constant complaints of the stuff I'd turn in he's actually ask me if I needed to fail. *laughs* Art classes are great. Take them. There, you will get honest, sincere critques from people who are just as scared and nervous as you. It will truely help you improve. I loved the critiquing in my art classes...I can't stand it on public forms. All you get is "OMG...that's so kawaii!" or "You need to keep practicing." Niether of these do an artist any good.
That being said, keep your chin up. Remember that art is about YOU...not about other people. Make sure you know the basic elements, practice, try new things, and listen to CONSTRUCTIVE people...It's possible if you put your mind to it.
Posted by Zoso at August 2, 2004 09:06 AM