It's difficult for artists to really make a name for themselves in a sea full of million other talented people sharing their work online for the world to see. Artists can utilize content, coloring technique, drawing style, and many other facets of illustration to make their work unique and coherent. Developing a style takes years of practice, learning, and some discovery.

You can make the argument that an artist is always growing and improving, but I do believe that style can have a definitive evolution. I had a monumental moment when my style (or the foundation for it) was achieved way back in 2007, a year into college. While in high school, I struggled with going back and forth and imitating my favorite manga artists as well as mimicking Western comic giants such as DC and Marvel.

I wasn't just copying other styles. I was struggling with what direction to take my original character, Starglider. When I first created him as a 10 year old, his look was very simple and cartoony. As I grew (and the character aged with me) it was clear my large round headed drawings needed to change with the times. What shape do I make his head? How much detail do I put into the armor? Do I keep his cowlick? These are the questions I considered when re-designing him again and again.

The Line Art

I have sketchbooks filled with many drawing of Starglider, each looking a little different as I experimented with the different styles I mentioned earlier. One day, it all clicked when I drew this one. I thought to myself "Ah ha! This is perfect! It's just the look I love that takes inspiration from both the East and the West."

Oddly enough, years later I would watch the Cartoon Network animated series, Ben 10: Alien Force, and imagine the likelihood of the network capitalizing on my discovery by rendering teenage Ben in a very similar style. Ah well, maybe great minds think alike? Seriously, the similarities are uncanny.

The Finished Illustration

I don't have the images from any other stages of creation like I usually do (ie: draft, sketch, flat colors). I didn't start that habit until many years later. According to the lore, Starglider has a few suit variations. This one is missing his iconic helmet but has additional featuring including a cape and energy sword. No self-respecting protagonist should be without a cool laser sword, am I right?

You won't find this digital artwork in my gallery or portfolio because of how old it is. However, it's still one of my favorites because it still reminds me of just important it is to learn from everyone, but to strive to make my character designs unique and mine. I try to be as original as possible, but like they say "there's nothing new under the sun". Starglider is not Ben 10, though they share visual cues. One day I hope to publish his story and give him the spotlight he deserves.

Is anyone interested in a Starglider web-comic series? If so, let me know with a comment. Thanks!