There are so many ways to express yourself through art. What better way to dazzle your friends and family other than painting an original piece of art that showcases your abilities. Even if you aren't the best artist, its really all about expressing yourself and enjoying what you do. There in itself is the reward. This article will guide you through the process of painting a Japanese-style dragon.
Study some Japanese-style dragons. You will notice there is often an underlying theme in a lot of the artwork. Japanese often use nature to communicate their ideas. Dragons are not only a legend or myth in Japanese culture but a huge part of their everyday lives. They treat their art with respect. Therefore, before you begin, get an idea of background and composition. The dragon will be the theme of the work, but be sure to add an element of nature as well.
Design something original. Do not copy anyone's work. Come up with ideas that may involve using an unexpected color or an unusual looking building or tree. Once you have an idea, sketch it out onto your paper or canvas. If you want, get a dictionary of Japanese characters to paint into your design. These are in every Japanese-style painting and they are usually little poems, phrases or the artist's name. You can be sure that if you don't know Japanese, its okay. The overall "look" of the painting is really the most important thing.
Start with the background color first and paint the entire canvas or page that color. Go with a light wash so you can still see the pencil marks. Start adding colors and focus on the dragon as you paint. You can go back and add the background and Japanese characters later as long as it enhances (not distracts from) the dragon. Add highlights and be sure not to judge your work as you paint. When you need a break, walk away and then come back and look at your work objectively. Use your instincts to correct it.
Put on the final touches. The round tipped brush is important to creating an authentic Japanese-style painting. This is indicative of the calligraphy used when writing the characters. The brushstrokes have a specific look to them that creates this particular style. You do not have to be an expert in Chinese brushstroke painting style; practice is really all you need. Paint out a few characters on a separate piece of paper, then add whatever you like to the painting. Apply this idea to anything in your painting.
Let your painting dry. Ask for opinions and add anything that comes to mind. Hang your painting up and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
