The Simple Art of Cartooning: A Fun Drawing Exercise

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The Simple Art of Cartooning: A Fun Drawing Exercise


Introduction 

Have you ever thought, "I can't draw"? If so, you're not alone! Many people believe that drawing requires natural talent or years of training. However, a recent exercise in my digital illustration course at Keiser University demonstrated otherwise. The goal was simple: create six cartoon characters using only basic shapes. The results? A reminder that anyone can draw with a bit of creativity and the right approach!


The Exercise: Breaking Down Complex Forms 

In this exercise, we were encouraged to break characters down into simple shapes—circles, ovals, and lines—allowing us to focus on expression and personality rather than technical perfection. By using exaggerated features such as large eyes, unique noses, and different mouth shapes, we brought our characters to life in a fun and approachable way.




What I Learned

  1. Expression Over Perfection – The charm of a cartoon character lies in its expression. Even with minimal details, a well-placed line can convey surprise, joy, or confusion.
  2. Basic Shapes Build Complexity – By starting with simple forms, I realized how easy it is to construct characters without feeling overwhelmed.
  3. Style Comes Naturally – As I played with different features, I noticed my personal style emerging. Each character felt unique, even though they were all drawn using the same technique.

Why You Should Try It 

This exercise is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to loosen up their drawing process. It’s a low-pressure way to explore creativity and build confidence in your artistic abilities. Whether you want to create comics, practice character design, or simply have fun, breaking forms into simple shapes is a great place to start!

Final Thoughts 

Drawing doesn’t have to be intimidating. Sometimes, the best way to improve is simply to start with a few lines and see where they take you. This exercise reminded me that art is about expression, not perfection. If you’ve ever doubted your ability to draw, grab a pencil and try this for yourself—you might be surprised at what you create!

What are your thoughts on this approach to drawing? Have you tried something similar? Share your experiences in the comments!

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