A place for Dojo Members to post Usagi Yojimbo "Otaku" art and fiction. Display your artistic and/or literary works based on Stan Sakai's Usagi Yojimbo here!
Initially drawn for a competition at Penciljack.com, I thought I'd join up here to post my little love letter to Stan Sakai and his famous rabbit ronin. I'm proud to say I own every single issue of the comic, all the way from the Fantagraphics days to the latest issue from Dark Horse. And it's still one of my favorites.
Four hours total work, Microns and brush on sketchbook paper, Photoshop colors.
I know Stan goes with the three-finger hand, but I can't do it... I used to do it for years when I was cartooning for the kids, but nowadays I just feel like I've missed drawing the pinky whenever I try, with rare exception.
Yeah, I tried to synthesize a little Sakai style into it while keeping it my own. I've been working as an animator for five years, and as an illustrator for 10, but I still draw bamboo almost exactly like Stan does... 'cause I picked it up from UY.
I think most half the tricks I know from inkline drawing I picked up from either Stan Sakai or Matt Howarth. Usagi's been a lifelong influence on me in a lot of subtle ways. I'm happier with the inks on this than I am with the colors, but then again I've still got a lot to learn with colors.
I don't know how well it'll do in the polls... it's an informal thing we do over there anyhow, no prizes or anything, just an opportunity to rock your skills.
Beautiful arcing of blood, and Usagi's expression. But what really draws me to the art are the subtle kimono design and the way the dead guys feet are pointing in different directions.
Thanks for all the props, everyone! I'm espescially tickled to get a reply from Stan, given that I've been following his work longer, I think, than almost any other comics creator.
I'd certainly be willing to provide a hires version of the inks for print.
