How you draw the eyes of your cartoon animals is important because most especially if you want to portray a certain expression. The eyes effectively express an emotion even with just the simplest form. Cartoons are known to have simple ways of creating the facial features of their characters in the meekest form. Few numbers of linings and shapes can complete the face of a subject which can be drawn quickly. The same thing goes to the faces of animals. No matter what kind of creature or being it is that you are drawing, remember that cartoons are meant to be expressive.
There are only two important parts of eyes that you need to take note of, the thick line for the eyelids and simple circles or even just dots for the spheres (iris and pupil). But remember that since the eyes is the most important feature for your car- toon to have an expression, any minimal changes and indifference on the pair (of eyes) will be obvious and might show a kind of expression that is different from what you are after. For example, big round eyes with just a small dot for the sphere would look like your cartoon animal is spooked or shocked, or if the eyelids are too narrow on the near ends, (tear duct)it will show an expression of anger or distress.
Observe how the eyes change its expression when the curves are turned on oppo- site sides. • Thicker lines are usually drawn on the upper lobe to portray thick eyelashes that best suits female animals.
• A side turned capital ‘D’ is the simplest way to draw eye shapes, this eye can either go with a smile or just a plain face/no extreme emotion.
• The eyes should follow the face’s dimension/ different sides. For example, in quarter angled figures the father eye is always drawn smaller than the other, to show that the side of that face is placed/ angled nearer. ‘Pearl eyes’ or eyes with big spheres with (implied) shines or gloss are often used in cartoon animals to make them look cuddlier and younger.
A common construction for this type of eye is just four circles. Two large circles for the eyelids and two more circles that is just a little smaller than the previous pair. This gives more space for the inner details of the sphere. Others mark light line marks to portray the iris, while most artist just simply leave a spot without a shade to portray a shine or gloss on the pupil.
There’s a variety of cartoon eyes that you can see in comics and cartoon shows, choose what best fits your drawings and practice until you gain the grasp of easily drawing it. Or better yet is to keep on using different kinds of eyes to better express the characters or emotions of your cartoon animals.
Finalize Your Artwork
When overlapping your pencil sketch with a permanent marker you should be careful and avoid any obvious mistakes on your line forms. To minimize errors, outline the drawing part by part.
Mastering the art of drawing eyes is a fundamental skill that can elevate your artistic abilities. From understanding basic shapes to adding expressive details, this guide provides everything you need to create lifelike and captivating eyes. Practice regularly, experiment with styles, and watch your drawings come to life with emotion and depth. Let your creativity shine through every gaze you draw!