Elements of Manga Style

Many years ago, there appeared in Japan a drawing style called manga. The style spread quickly, embraced by artists of all cultures. Too often, however, these artists ape the surface characteristics of manga, without understanding the artistic principles underlying them. These principles are the subject of this work.


Unlike most manga tutorials, which give you generic models to copy, Elements of Manga Style provides genuine insight into the underlying structure of authentic manga style. Using many images from the worlds of manga and fine art as examples, Lopes lucidly explains the secrets of composition, color, dynamic contrast, and simplicity that define the manga style. He also explores unique manga techniques like “Notan,” ”chobo-chobo,” and “super-deformed”. 


If you are looking for a chart showing how to draw “manga eyes,” or copy your favorite characters, look elsewhere. If you seek the tools to use create personal artistic expression within the manga tradition, and understand manga's place in the history of world art, this book is for you.


Originally published in Brazil as “Elementos do Estilo Mangá,” Elements of Manga Style was nominated in 20?? for Brazil’s most prestigious comics prize, the HQ Mix Trophy.


About The Author

Joao Henrique Lopes is a professional illustrator and mangaka. He is a graduate of the Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA) with a degree in visual arts, and is currently designing typefaces and working in a manga called Ninja War. He lives in Brazil.


Praise for “Elements Of Manga Style”

“With their Elements of Style, Strunk and White did it for prose, and now – after a great deal of observation and analysis – Joao Henrique Lopes does it for manga with his new and concise Elements of Manga Style.”

– Frederik L. Schodt