Hirohiko Araki’s art is instantly recognizable; striking poses, twisted anatomy, and a fearless mix of realism and exaggeration. What sets him apart is how he balances extremes: one foot in reality, one in the bizarre. His pages feel alive, never stagnant, always evolving. Looking at his work reminds me that manga isn’t just storytelling, it’s expression, identity, and the courage to reinvent yourself.
Araki shared his approach (JoJo 6251)
He starts with rough sketches, often inspired by magazines or photo references, redrawing until the pose matches his vision. He builds a clean underdrawing on quality paper, focusing on main lines before adding details like clothing and accessories. Inking is done with Zebra G-pens and deep blacks, giving his art strong contrast and volume. His coloring uses bright Holbein inks in bold, unconventional palettes, layering tones for depth while treating clothing and backgrounds with the same care as characters. The finishing touches come from highlights, corrections, and small symbolic details that tie each illustration back to the story’s theme.
Game Arts
Hirohiko Araki’s art is instantly recognizable; striking poses, twisted anatomy, and a fearless mix of realism and exaggeration. What sets him apart is how he balances extremes: one foot in reality, one in the bizarre. His pages feel alive, never stagnant, always evolving. Looking at his work reminds me that manga isn’t just storytelling, it’s expression, identity, and the courage to reinvent yourself.
Araki shared his approach (JoJo 6251)
He starts with rough sketches, often inspired by magazines or photo references, redrawing until the pose matches his vision. He builds a clean underdrawing on quality paper, focusing on main lines before adding details like clothing and accessories. Inking is done with Zebra G-pens and deep blacks, giving his art strong contrast and volume. His coloring uses bright Holbein inks in bold, unconventional palettes, layering tones for depth while treating clothing and backgrounds with the same care as characters. The finishing touches come from highlights, corrections, and small symbolic details that tie each illustration back to the story’s theme.
2 months ago | [YT] | 159