Drawing exaggerated cartoon expressions can be challenging to say the least. What’s a beginner to do in order to get going?
Here are my top three tips:
- don’t be ashamed to use a reference
- remember to ask “what moves?”
- always think “Character”
Using a reference for exaggerated cartoon expressions
There is no shame in using a reference. The best artists in the world always have and always will. In the old days they drew from life. These days we have Google and Pinterest, that gift to all creative folks everywhere. Scroll down to find the link to my “not so secret” Pinterest board about how to draw cartoon expressions
Asking “what moves?” for exaggerated cartoon expressions
The top of the skull is made of bone and as a result it can’t move a whole lot, no matter what your character is feeling. It can explode … but that’s only possible in animation! So above the eyes, the head (apart from the hair, which can give an indication of emotion) is pretty static.
Below the eyes, on the other hand… the face is extremely mobile. The chin goes south when the jaw drops, whether to yawn, yell or show disbelief. Similar, when you grin madly, your mouth stretches from side to side and pushes up the apples of your cheeks which in turn change the shape of your eyes… you get the picture.
So keeping track of what moves can help you when drawing exaggerated cartoon expressions.
Thinking “Character” for exaggerated expressions
Characters have characteristics. That is what makes them recognisable. So they go certain places, wear certain things, act in certain ways to certain people. Every character ha a personality and calls on the same emotions most of the time.
Think about your favourite character. Tintin, Snooopy, Calvin — they are recognisable by the patterns in their lives and their behaviour.
You can draw out a range of expressions that will serve you character in 95% of its life situations, and keep that as a quick reference sheet on hand to avoid reinventing the wheel constantly.
And now it’s time for the exaggerated cartoon expressions video
How to Get the Most out of this Video
Draw along!
Find a pencil and paper, right now.
Watch the video all the way through once (it’s only around 7 minutes ? )
Watch it again one section at a time and draw the faces yourself.
BONUS for Exaggerated Cartoon Expressions
Here is the link to my Pinterest board of cartoon expressions:
Learn to Cartoon — Expressions