Composition and eye-direction techniques

In this article, we're going to dive into some nifty techniques sprinkled throughout a New Year's illustration! Check out the video below for a visual feast and grab some knowledge that you won't find just by watching!

https://youtube.com/shorts/6B4uBNoH2x4?si=qmMgaYu1HEJNyq4k

Amp Up the Impression with the Right Composition

For our festive illustration, we decided to go with a symmetrical composition!

Symmetry brings stability and beauty to the table, creating a well-organized impression that catches the eye. It also highlights the neatness of the kimono and the charm of KawaiiSensei. "New Year" implies starting anew and getting things in order, making symmetry the perfect match for the theme.

We also played around with the Hinomaru (rising sun) and radial compositions to subtly guide the viewer's gaze towards the character's expression.

By combining these compositions, we've emphasized the celebratory vibe with a sunrise-themed background.

Here's where we kick things up a notch! Although symmetry offers a neat impression, perfect symmetry can sometimes be forgettable or lack intrigue. To keep things interesting, we've tweaked the position of the obi clasp and added variations to the sleeves.

While symmetry is visually pleasing, a touch of asymmetry, reminiscent of hand-drawn charm, often leaves a more lasting impression. If you're curious, look up "Hello Kitty asymmetry" once you're done reading.

Though at first glance the illustration seems perfectly symmetrical, a closer look reveals its asymmetric secrets, adding depth and interest to the piece. Keep this trick in your back pocket to elevate your artwork!

Use Complementary Colors and Contrast for Definition

This illustration uses complementary colors and contrasts to create a vivid and cohesive image. Complementary colors, found opposite each other on the color wheel, enhance each other's vibrancy.

With a desire to encapsulate festivity, we chose a white background with luxurious yellow, contrasting it with a light blue kimono that stands out against the yellow. Although purple is the direct complement to yellow, it didn't fit the vibe we were aiming for, so we opted for light blue to maintain harmony and visual interest.

We also introduced complementary colors (yellow and purple) in the obi, adding visual contrast within the character design, enriching the color palette.

Incorporating red and white elements throughout adds festive flair and keeps the design from feeling monotonous. The play between colored and achromatic areas not only adds contrast but also increases the richness of information.

Choosing colors wisely based on these principles can significantly enhance the appeal of your illustrations. If you've been picking colors randomly, this might be a great opportunity to deepen your understanding of color theory!

Leading the Eye with Every Trick in the Book

The face, packed with detail and cuteness, is where you want viewers to focus. We've employed every trick in the book to ensure eyes are drawn to the face.

First up, we revisit the Hinomaru and radial compositions, directing attention towards the face.

Splattered ink is used to re-lead the gaze from the edges back to the face.

We've also created areas around the face with high contrast and a mix of chromatic and achromatic colors to make it naturally more eye-catching.

The goal is to have the viewer's gaze inevitably land on the face, ensuring your artwork is appreciated for longer. Keep eye guidance in mind to make your illustrations even more engaging!

That wraps up our guide! There are countless more detailed techniques we couldn't cover this time, but we hope to share more in the future. Thanks for sticking with us till the end!

Catch you next time!