Level Up Your Skills: A Guide to Character Drawing Classes on YouTube

The internet has become a treasure trove for aspiring artists, and character drawing is no exception. YouTube offers a vast library of free and paid character drawing classes, catering to all skill levels and artistic styles. So, grab your digital pen or trusty pencil, and let's explore some fantastic channels to elevate your character creation!

Building the Basics: Learning Anatomy and Form

• Proko: This channel, run by professional artist Aaron Blaise, offers a wealth of free content focused on the fundamentals of drawing. His "Figure Drawing for All Levels" playlist is a great starting point, providing a structured approach to understanding anatomy and figure drawing.
• New Masters Academy: While some of their content requires a subscription, New Masters Academy offers excellent free resources on anatomy for artists. Check out their "Anatomy for Artists" playlist for in-depth tutorials on human and animal anatomy.

Bringing Your Characters to Life: Expression and Poses

• Marc Brunet: Marc Brunet's channel focuses on character design and animation. His "How to Draw Facial Expressions" playlist delves into capturing emotions through facial features, while his "Drawing Dynamic Poses" series explores the art of creating believable and impactful poses for your characters.

Exploring Different Styles: From Cartoons to Anime

• Aaron Blaise (Proko) - Again! Yes, Proko makes another appearance! Beyond his anatomy tutorials, Aaron Blaise also offers genre-specific courses. His "Cartoon Character Design" playlist explores creating expressive and appealing cartoon characters, while his "Drawing Anime & Manga" series delves into the world of Japanese animation styles.
• BardotBrush: This channel by artist Stephanie Nguyen caters to fans of anime and manga art styles. Her tutorials break down complex concepts like drawing hair, eyes, and clothing into easy-to-follow steps, perfect for aspiring anime artists.

Bonus Tip: Embrace the Community!

Many art channels on YouTube foster a strong sense of community. Take advantage of the comment sections to ask questions, share your work for feedback, and connect with other aspiring artists on their creative journeys.

Remember, the key to mastering character drawing is consistent practice. Supplementing your learning with these YouTube channels will equip you with valuable skills and inspire you to create your own unique characters. So, happy drawing!

Some More Channels:

Draw Cartoons: A really nice channel for beginners

Christopher Hart: Full of ideas and tutorials

If you have a favourite set o Character Drawing classes, share them in the comments section.

Sharpen Your Skills: Essential Drawing Practices for Aspiring Animators

 The world of animation brings characters and stories to life through the magic of movement. But behind the captivating action sequences and expressive emotions, lies a foundation of strong drawing skills. Whether you dream of creating the next iconic cartoon or breathing life into a digital masterpiece, mastering these drawing practices will set you on the path to animation success.

Building the Blocks: Anatomy and Gesture Drawing

• Understanding the Body: A solid grasp of human (or animal, depending on your animation focus) anatomy is crucial. Practice drawing figures in various poses, focusing on bone structure, muscle groups, and their influence on movement.
• Capturing Movement with Gesture: Gesture drawings are all about capturing the essence of a pose – the energy, the flow, the balance. These quick, loose sketches train your eye to see the action and translate it into believable movement for your animation.

Life Drawing: Capturing the Essence of Life

• Observing the Real World: Life drawing, sketching real people or animals in motion, is an invaluable practice. It hones your observational skills, allowing you to capture the subtle nuances of movement and expression that will bring your animated characters to life.
• From Stillness to Motion: Life drawing teaches you to see beyond the static pose. Analyze how weight shifts, muscles contract, and how the body moves in space.

Drawing for Animation: Beyond the Basics

• Understanding Form and Design: Animation characters are often simplified representations of reality. Practice breaking down complex shapes into basic forms and learn how to design characters that are visually appealing and easy to animate.
• Exaggeration for Effect: Animation thrives on exaggeration. Practice exaggerating features and movements to emphasize emotions and actions, making your characters more expressive and captivating.

Practice Makes Progress: Consistency is Key

• Drawing Every Day: Dedication is key. Develop a regular drawing habit, even if it's just for 15 minutes a day. The more you draw, the more comfortable and confident you'll become with your skills.
• Don't Be Afraid to Experiment: Embrace experimentation! Try different styles, explore new techniques, and have fun with the process. There's no single "right" way to draw for animation, so find what works best for you.

Animation Resources: Inspiration and Guidance

• Seek Inspiration: Immerse yourself in the world of animation. Watch classic cartoons, analyze contemporary animated films, and study the work of animators you admire.
• Online Resources and Courses: The internet offers a wealth of animation tutorials, courses, and online communities. Utilize these resources to expand your knowledge and connect with other aspiring animators.

Remember, the journey to becoming a skilled animator takes time and dedication. By incorporating these essential drawing practices into your routine, you'll be well on your way to bringing your animated visions to life!

 Animation enthusiasts, rejoice! Today, we delve into the delightful chaos of "A Tale of Two Kitties" (1942), a Warner Bros. Merrie Melodies cartoon that holds a special place in animation history. Not only is it a side-splitting romp, but it also marks the debut of an iconic character – the one and only Tweety Bird!

A Looney Debut: Enter Tweety!

Though not yet sporting his signature yellow plumage and the unforgettable "I tawt I taw a puddy tat!" line, "A Tale of Two Kitties" introduces us to a canary with a feisty spirit. Originally named Orson, the tiny bird faces the relentless pursuit of two bumbling cats, Babbit and Catstello – a hilarious parody of the popular comedy duo Abbott and Costello.

Slapstick Shenanigans and Feline Frustration

Directed by the legendary Bob Clampett, "A Tale of Two Kitties" is a masterclass in slapstick comedy. The cartoon follows the two cats, driven by insatiable hunger, on their relentless mission to catch the elusive Orson. Their attempts are met with a series of outrageous mishaps – from gravity-defying antics to the destruction of property (much to the audience's amusement).

A Legacy of Laughter: Tweety Takes Flight

Despite the constant threat, Orson, with his feisty spirit and surprising strength, outsmarts the clumsy cats at every turn. This sets the stage for the iconic Tweety Bird we know and love today. "A Tale of Two Kitties" paved the way for a long line of hilarious cartoons featuring Tweety's ongoing battle with Sylvester the Cat, solidifying their place as one of animation's most beloved duos.

A Look Back: Animation Techniques and Historical Context

"A Tale of Two Kitties" offers a glimpse into the animation techniques of the early 1940s. The bold character designs, the vibrant use of color, and the exaggerated movements are hallmarks of the classic Looney Tunes style. Released during World War II, the cartoon might have provided a much-needed escape from the anxieties of the time, offering audiences a dose of laughter and lighthearted entertainment.

A Tale of Two Kitties": A Looney Tunes Treasure

"A Tale of Two Kitties" is more than just a funny cartoon. It's a significant piece of animation history, marking the birth of an iconic character and showcasing the enduring appeal of classic slapstick comedy. So, next time you're looking for a good laugh, revisit this Looney Tunes gem and witness the origins of the legendary Tweety Bird!

Animate Your World: Fun and Easy Exercises to Practice Animation at Home

 The world of animation is bursting with creativity and imagination. But for aspiring animators, the thought of creating those captivating characters and moving stories can seem daunting. Fear not! You don't need fancy equipment or years of experience to get started. In fact, there are plenty of simple animation exercises you can practice right at home, honing your skills and igniting your inner animator.

Let's Bounce!: The Classic Bouncing Ball

This exercise might seem basic, but it's a cornerstone of animation. Here's how it works:

1. Grab some paper and a pencil.
2. Draw a series of circles, gradually increasing and decreasing in size, to represent the ball's bounce.
3. Focus on capturing the squash and stretch principles – the ball compressing as it hits the ground and stretching as it rises.
4. Once you're happy with your drawings, flip through the pages quickly to see your bouncing ball come to life! (This is the flipbook animation technique!)

Bring a Drawing to Life: The Character Blink

Adding simple movements like a blink can breathe life into your characters. Here's your guide:

1. Draw a basic character with expressive eyes.
2. Draw two frames – one with the character's eyes open and another with them closed.
3. Experiment with the speed of the blink by adding more or fewer frames between the open and closed eye positions.
4. Animate the sequence by flipping through the drawings to create the blinking motion.

Move it, Move it!: The Simple Walk Cycle

Creating a character walk cycle might seem complex, but a simplified version can be a great exercise.

1. Draw your character in different poses – standing, one leg forward, the other leg back, and so on.
2. Focus on capturing the weight transfer and balance as the character walks.
3. Flip through the drawings to see your character come to life with a basic walk cycle!

Bonus Tip: Embrace Technology!

While traditional pen and paper animation is fantastic, there are free and user-friendly animation apps available for smartphones and tablets. These apps allow you to experiment with digital animation techniques, further enhancing your animation skills.

Practice Makes Progress: Keep Animating!

The key to mastering animation is consistent practice. Don't be afraid to experiment, have fun, and unleash your creativity. These simple exercises are just the beginning. The internet is filled with tutorials, online courses, and animation communities to inspire and guide you on your animation journey. So, grab your tools, unleash your imagination, and start animating your world!

Sweet Dreams are Made of This: Exploring the 1936 Classic "Somewhere in Dreamland"

 Animation enthusiasts and nostalgia seekers, rejoice! Today, we're taking a trip down memory lane to explore a charming 1936 cartoon – "Somewhere in Dreamland." Produced by Fleischer Studios, this delightful short film is not only a visual treat but also a heartwarming story about childhood dreams and the power of imagination. So, buckle up and get ready to be transported to a world of candy castles and ice cream rivers!

A Dreamy Escape for Two Down-on-Their-Luck Kids

"Somewhere in Dreamland" sets the scene during the Great Depression. We meet two impoverished children, a brother and sister, struggling to make ends meet. Their meager supper is a stark contrast to the delectable treats displayed in the bakery window. As they drift off to sleep, their dreams take flight, transporting them to a magical land aptly named "Dreamland."

A Land of Confectionary Delights

"Somewhere in Dreamland" is a true feast for the eyes. Fleischer Studios, known for their innovative techniques and vibrant color palettes, pulls out all the stops. The animation is fluid and expressive, bringing the fantastical world of Dreamland to life. Candy canes become fences, lollipops transform into trees, and rivers flow with ice cream – a sugary paradise for any child (or adult) with a sweet tooth!

A Timeless Tale of Innocence and Hope

Despite the focus on sugary delights, "Somewhere in Dreamland" offers a heartwarming message. It celebrates the power of imagination, particularly for children facing hardship. The film reminds us that even in difficult times, dreams can provide a much-needed escape and a spark of hope for a brighter future.

A Public Domain Gem: Freely Accessible for All

Adding to the charm of "Somewhere in Dreamland" is its public domain status in the United States. Copyright laws in the 1930s were complex, and due to lapses in renewal, the film is now freely available for viewing and even reimagining. This makes it a valuable piece of animation history, accessible to anyone with an internet connection.

Looking for More? Exploring the Fleischer Studios Legacy

"Somewhere in Dreamland" is just one of many gems from Fleischer Studios. If you're captivated by this film's animation style and storytelling, consider exploring other Fleischer classics like "Betty Boop" cartoons or the iconic "Superman" animated shorts. The world of early animation awaits your discovery!

Tom and Jerry Get Hooked: A Dive into the 1932 Public Domain Cartoon "Jolly Fish"

 Calling all animation enthusiasts and Tom and Jerry fans! Today, we're taking a plunge into the deep waters of animation history with a lesser-known but delightful short, "Jolly Fish" (1932). This black and white gem, part of the early Tom and Jerry series produced by Van Beuren Studios, is not only a fun watch but also a public domain treasure. Let's cast a line and explore what makes "Jolly Fish" a hidden gem of animation.

A Tom and Jerry Adventure (Of Sorts)

While the iconic Tom and Jerry we know today wouldn't appear until the 1940s under MGM Studios, "Jolly Fish" features the original duo in a slightly different form. Here, they're more akin to a tall, lanky Tom and a shorter, rounder Jerry. Despite the character redesign, the essence of their antagonistic relationship remains. In "Jolly Fish," our unlikely duo embarks on a fishing trip, and hilarity ensues as they encounter a series of outlandish characters, from an overly affectionate fish to a swordfish with a penchant for boat-splitting.

In the 1950s, the “Tom and Jerry” series by Van Beuren was rebranded as “Dick and Larry.” Consequently, the title card introduces this animation as “A Dick and Larry Cartoon.”

A Public Domain Delight:

One of the most interesting aspects of "Jolly Fish" is its public domain status. Copyright laws in the 1920s and 1930s were complex, and due to lapses in renewal, "Jolly Fish" is now freely available for viewing and even reimagining. This makes it a valuable piece of animation history, accessible to anyone with an internet connection.

A Glimpse into Early Animation:

"Jolly Fish" offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of early animation. The black and white visuals, the rubber hose animation style, and the zany sound effects are a delightful reminder of the evolution of animation techniques. Watching this cartoon is like stepping back in time and experiencing the creativity and humor of a bygone era.

Beyond the Fun: The Importance of Public Domain

The public domain status of "Jolly Fish" highlights the importance of preserving and making accessible these early works of animation. They offer valuable insights into the development of the art form, and their free availability allows for continued enjoyment and even reinterpretation by future generations.

So, dive into the world of "Jolly Fish," and discover a charming public domain gem waiting to be enjoyed!

Bringing Your Vision to Life: Top Animation Software Picks for All Levels

 The world of animation is booming! From hand-drawn masterpieces to cutting-edge 3D creations, captivating stories are being brought to life like never before. But with so many animation software options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Worry not, aspiring animators! This post will guide you through some of the best animation software picks, catering to beginners, seasoned professionals, and everything in between.

Free and Open-Source Wonders:

• Blender: This industry-standard software offers a comprehensive suite of tools for 3D animation, modeling, simulation, and more. With a vast online community and a supportive open-source development model, Blender empowers beginners and pros alike to create stunning 3D animations. https://www.blender.org/download/
• Krita: Calling all aspiring 2D animators! Krita boasts a user-friendly interface, powerful brush engines, and frame-by-frame animation capabilities, making it a great choice for creating expressive hand-drawn animations. Best part? It's completely free and open-source! https://krita.org/en/

Premium Animation Powerhouses:

• Adobe Animate (formerly Flash): A veteran in the 2D animation industry, Adobe Animate offers a robust toolkit for creating vector animations, interactive content, and even games. Its seamless integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications makes it a favorite among professional animators. https://helpx.adobe.com/after-effects/using/animation-basics.html
• Toon Boom Harmony: This industry-leading software caters specifically to 2D animation, offering a streamlined workflow for traditional frame-by-frame animation, cut-out animation, and character rigging. Toon Boom Harmony is a popular choice for creating high-quality cartoons and character animation. https://www.toonboom.com/harmony-17-introducing-new-tools-for-traditional-animation

Animation Made Easy: Beginner-Friendly Options:

• OpenToonz: Based on the animation software used by Studio Ghibli for classics like Spirited Away, OpenToonz offers a powerful yet accessible platform for 2D frame-by-frame animation. Its clean interface and focus on traditional techniques make it a great starting point for beginners. https://opentoonz.github.io/e/
• Moho Debut (formerly Anime Studio Debut): This affordable software caters specifically to 2D cut-out animation. With its intuitive drag-and-drop functionality and easy-to-use rigging tools, Moho Debut allows beginners to create engaging animations without getting bogged down in complex features. https://my.smithmicro.com/

Remember, the best animation software is the one that fits your needs and skill level. Don't be afraid to experiment and try out different options. Many programs offer free trials or student discounts, so you can explore before you invest. With dedication and the right tools, you can transform your animation dreams into reality.

Happy animating!

Bop to the Moocher: Betty Boop's Infectious Debut in "Minnie the Moocher" (1932)

 In the annals of animation history, 1932 holds a special place. It's the year Betty Boop, the iconic cartoon flapper, sashayed onto our screens for the first time. And her debut wasn't a coy introduction – it was a full-blown, toe-tapping, jazz-infused spectacle in the form of "Minnie the Moocher."

A Musical Mayhem:

"Minnie the Moocher" is a whirlwind of animation, music, and early sound experimentation. The short features Betty Boop, still in her early design phase (think large eyes and a more canine appearance), alongside her canine companion, Bimbo. The plot is simple: a mysterious song, "Minnie the Moocher," drives everyone wild, including a trio of ghostly cavemen who become the film's musical highlight.

The Power of Cab Calloway:

The real star of the show, however, is not Betty Boop (though her sassy charm shines through). It's Cab Calloway, the legendary jazz singer and bandleader. "Minnie the Moocher" features a live-action introduction by Calloway himself, followed by his animated band providing the infectious soundtrack. Calloway's energetic performance and signature scat singing style translate beautifully to animation, creating a truly unique viewing experience.

Booping into Our Hearts:

Despite sharing the spotlight, Betty Boop manages to leave a lasting impression. Her wide-eyed innocence and surprisingly expressive rubber hose animation make her a captivating presence. This early version of Betty Boop lacks the overt sex appeal she would later acquire, but her charisma and spunk are undeniable.

A Legacy of Animation Magic:

"Minnie the Moocher" holds historical significance as one of the first cartoons to feature a recognizable musical celebrity. The film's blend of animation and live-action, coupled with its innovative use of sound, helped pave the way for future cartoons. While Betty Boop would evolve over the years, her debut in "Minnie the Moocher" remains a testament to the enduring power of animation and the infectious energy of a good song.

A Bear Necessities Tale: Exploring Ub Iwerks' 1935 "The Three Bears"

 In the golden age of animation, nestled amongst the groundbreaking works of Walt Disney Studios, another studio was making its mark – Ub Iwerks. One of their charming creations is the 1935 animated short, "The Three Bears," a delightful reimagining of the classic children's story. Let's take a trip down memory lane and explore this colorful cartoon.

A Familiar Tale with a Cartoon Twist

"The Three Bears" follows the basic premise of the classic story. We meet a curious young girl, Goldilocks (though unnamed in the cartoon), who stumbles upon a charming cottage in the woods. Inside, she encounters the belongings of three bears – a large bowl, a medium-sized bowl, and a tiny bowl – and succumbs to the temptation of porridge. One chair is too hard, another too soft, and the third, just right, leads to a disastrous nap for Goldilocks. When the three bears return home, chaos erupts as they discover their home in disarray.

Ub Iwerks: The Animator Behind the Bears

Ub Iwerks, a former Disney animator and co-creator of Mickey Mouse, established his own studio after parting ways with Disney. "The Three Bears" is part of the ComiColor Cartoons series, a collection of 25 animated shorts produced by Ub Iwerks Studio between 1933 and 1936. These cartoons are known for their vibrant color palettes, innovative special effects (for the time), and focus on humor and character animation.

A World of Color and Movement

"The Three Bears" stands out for its use of color. The forest scenes are awash with lush greens and browns, while the interior of the cottage is a delightful explosion of color, with each bear's belongings vibrantly depicted. The animation, though lacking the fluidity of later works, is full of charm. The characters move with a certain cartoonish exaggeration, adding to the humor of the situations.

A Legacy of Entertainment: A Classic Tale Reimagined

While not as widely known as some Disney films, "The Three Bears" holds a special place in animation history. It's a reminder of the creativity and innovation present in early animation studios like Ub Iwerks. The cartoon's simple story and relatable characters, combined with its vibrant visuals and humorous moments, continue to entertain viewers of all ages.

Finding the Three Bears Today

Thanks to the magic of the internet, "The Three Bears" is easily accessible to modern audiences. Several versions can be found online, allowing viewers to experience this piece of animation history for themselves.

So, next time you're looking for a classic tale with a touch of animation magic, seek out Ub Iwerks' 1935 "The Three Bears." It's a delightful reminder of the enduring power of storytelling and the charm of early animation.

A Look Back at Fleischer's "Little Lambkins" (1940)

 In the golden age of animation, Fleischer Studios brought us iconic characters like Betty Boop and Popeye. But nestled amongst these gems lies a lesser-known but equally delightful short film – "Little Lambkins" (1940).

Fleischer Flair: A Visual Feast

"Little Lambkins" showcases the brilliance of Fleischer Studios, known for their innovative techniques and bold color palettes.

So, if you're looking for a quick dose of animation nostalgia, "Little Lambkins" is a perfect choice. It's a delightfully silly and heartwarming tale that will leave you smiling – and maybe even humming the catchy tunes long after the credits roll.

Stepping Right Up: A Look at the Animation Walk Cycle

 The animation walk cycle – it might sound technical, but it's the secret sauce behind every character who's ever strolled, strutted, or shuffled across our screens. This fundamental animation technique brings characters to life, making their movements feel natural and believable. Let's lace up our virtual sneakers and explore the fascinating world of the walk cycle.

What is a Walk Cycle?

Imagine a series of drawings strung together like frames in a flipbook. This is essentially what a walk cycle is – a sequence of illustrated poses that depict a character walking, repeated to create the illusion of continuous movement.

Breaking Down the Walk:

Creating a convincing walk cycle requires understanding the different phases a leg goes through during a single step. Here's a simplified breakdown:

1. Contact: The foot makes contact with the ground, taking the weight of the body.
2. Passing Pose: The opposite leg swings forward, creating a moment of imbalance.
3. Up Pose: The weight transfers to the front leg, with the back leg fully extended.
4. Down Pose: The back leg swings forward to begin the cycle again.

The Art of Timing and Spacing:

It's not just about the poses – timing and spacing are crucial. The speed at which the drawings transition determines the pace of the walk, while the distance between poses affects the character's stride length. A fast walk cycle will have shorter intervals between poses, while a leisurely stroll will have longer, more spaced-out drawings.

Adding Personality to the Walk

A skilled animator can use the walk cycle to not only show movement but also to convey a character's personality. A confident character might have a wider stride and a high head held up, while a timid character might have a shorter, hesitant walk with their head down.

Beyond the Basics: Variations on a Theme

The basic walk cycle is a foundational skill, but animators can adapt it to create different walking styles. Running cycles involve faster poses with more exaggerated leg extensions. Limping walks can be achieved by altering the timing and weight distribution between the legs. The possibilities are endless!

Why is the Walk Cycle Important?

The walk cycle is a fundamental skill for any animator. It's the building block for more complex movements like running, jumping, and dancing. A well-crafted walk cycle not only adds realism but also breathes life into a character, making them feel believable and engaging for the audience.

So next time you see your favorite animated character take a walk, take a moment to appreciate the artistry and technical skill behind that seemingly simple movement. The walk cycle is a testament to the power of animation, where a series of drawings come together to create the illusion of life and movement.