Tuesday, June 16, 2015

Princess Mononoke

Recently I was digging through my old sketch books looking for blank sheets (sometimes I don't finish a sketch book), and I came across this old Princess Mononoke sketch.

If you are not familiar with the character, this sketch is based on the 1997 Japanese historical fantasy animated film by Hayao Miyazaki

Princess Mononoke is one of my husband's favorite Miyazaki films, but to be honest it took me several attempts to finish it. I am more into cutesy and happy films, and this one was too violent for my tastes. 

Eventually, I finished the movie and grew to enjoy the edgy story and visually intoxicating artwork. Miyazaki's devotion to detail is part of what makes his films magical to me. I found it interesting that he and his art crew spent 3 days soaking in the landscapes of the ancient forests and mountains in Japan for this movie. His style is unwavering, and you know right away that you are watching a Studio Ghibli film. 

Although my sketch doesn't portray any edginess, I feel it captures a whimsy of how a Miyazaki film makes me feel. I plan to sketch more characters from his films in the future. 
If you've never seen Princess Mononoke I recommend watching it.

What is your favorite Miyazaki film?


3 comments:

  1. I love this sketch (always have)! You can tell exactly who the character is, yet it still has your distinct flair. It's so cute.

    My favorite has always been Kiki's Delivery Service. Witches? Cats? Yes please!

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    1. Aww thanks! I've been meaning to work on more Miyazaki characters. Maybe later this summer. I like Kiki too! I love that song that plays at the beginning!

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  2. Princess Mononoke is my favorite as well. This sketch is just wonderful!!

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