Reader’s Question:
I’m a 16-year-old guy who wants to become an illustrator, and I draw anime-style illustrations. However, I don’t watch anime or play games anymore, which feels really concerning. A few years ago, I was into anime and had some favorite games, but due to various real-life issues, I lost
interest and motivation. I know it might sound strange, but do you think I should still try to engage with popular content, even if it’s a bit forced, to keep up with trends in art styles? I see many illustrators who create amazing art and are also deeply involved in gaming and anime, and I find that really impressive.

Finding Your Footing as an Illustrator: Do You Need to Dive Back into Anime?

So, picture this: You’re 16, bursting with creative energy, and dreaming of becoming an illustrator. You’ve got your pencil poised and your sketchbook ready, but here’s the catch—you’re not really into anime or gaming anymore. It’s a bit of a pickle, right? You might feel like you’re missing the boat, like you should be binging shows or grinding through the latest video games to keep up with the crowd. But should you? Let’s unpack this together.

The Art of Illustrating Without the Anime Fan Club

First off, let me just say that it’s completely okay to step back from something you once loved. Life can throw a lot at you—school, friends, family stuff, and let’s not forget the rollercoaster of teenage emotions. Sometimes, our interests change, and that’s totally normal. Just because you’re not glued to a screen or scrolling through endless anime forums doesn’t mean you can’t create stunning art. In fact, I can relate to this on some level. I remember a time when I was obsessed with manga and anime. I’d spend hours doodling my favorite characters and fantasizing about creating my own stories. But as I grew up—life happened. I got busy, lost touch with some of my passions, and honestly? I kind of panicked about how that would affect my art. But here’s the thing: the core of illustration is about expressing yourself, your unique vision. So, if you haven’t been watching the latest anime or gaming like a pro, don’t sweat it! The skills you need as an illustrator can come from all kinds of influences, not just what’s trending.

Engaging with Trends: Is It Worth It?

Now, about keeping up with trends—this is where it gets a bit trickier. If you want to work in anime-style illustrations professionally, it helps to know what’s popular. The art world is a bit like a fast-moving train; if you don’t hop on at the right time, you might find yourself left behind. But here’s a little secret: you don’t have to be an anime junkie to understand the styles and trends. Think of it this way: you can keep an eye on what’s popular without immersing yourself completely. Browse art on social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, or even TikTok, which are teeming with artists showcasing their work. You can gain inspiration, learn new techniques, and even spot trends without having to dive back into a fandom that doesn’t resonate with you anymore.

Your Unique Style and Voice

And let’s talk about style. If you already have a specific artistic voice or style, that’s golden! Your individuality is what will set you apart in a sea of talent. You don’t have to mimic what everyone else is doing; instead, take inspiration from different sources—nature, fashion, architecture, or even your own life experiences. It’s like cooking. You don’t always have to follow the recipe to a T. Sometimes, you can throw in a little of this and a dash of that and create something uniquely yours. When you find that balance—mixing your own style with a sprinkle of current trends—you’ll create something magical.

Connecting with the Community

Now, if you’re leaning toward the idea of working with anime or gaming companies, keep this in mind: communication with fans and clients matters. If you’re aiming for a gig that involves those worlds, being in tune with the community can help you connect better with your audience. You don’t have to be a super fan, but being aware of their interests, the lingo, or the latest buzz can be beneficial. Consider attending local conventions or art meetups (if you can!). These places are full of people who share similar interests, and who knows? You might find inspiration in unexpected places. Just engaging with the community can spark ideas and help you feel more connected, even if you’re still figuring out your own path.

Finding Inspiration Beyond Anime

If you’re still feeling a bit lost about where to find inspiration outside of anime, here are some ideas that might help: 1. Explore Other Art Styles: Delve into different genres like realism, abstract, or even the classics. Visit museums or look at art books. You might discover something that deeply resonates with you. 2. Nature Walks: Seriously! There’s so much beauty outside. Take a sketchbook with you and draw whatever catches your eye—flowers, landscapes, or even your pet. Nature is a fantastic muse. 3. Read Books: Not just manga, but novels or graphic novels too. Stories can inspire visuals, and you might find yourself sketching characters or scenes from the tales you read. 4. Collaborate: Find other artists, whether they’re into anime or not. Collaborating can push you out of your comfort zone and open doors to new styles and methods you wouldn’t have considered alone. 5. Experiment: Don’t be afraid to play around with styles or mediums. Try digital art if you usually draw with pencil, or vice versa. Experimentation can lead to amazing discoveries.

Conclusion: Your Journey Is Unique

So, to wrap this up—should you force yourself back into the anime or gaming world? Nah, not really. It’s all about finding what works for you. While engaging with trends can be helpful, remember that your artistic journey is uniquely yours. Embrace what you love, explore new avenues, and let your creativity flow. The world of illustration is vast, and there’s space for your voice—whatever it may be. At the end of the day, art is about expressing who you are. So, pick up that pencil, explore, and enjoy the journey. Your future in illustration is bright, and who knows? You might just create something that inspires others, too. Happy drawing!