What is Berserk?

Berserk, crafted by the late Kentaro Miura, is a masterpiece manga that plunges readers into a nightmarish medieval-inspired world. At its heart is Guts, the "Black Swordsman," a lone mercenary marked by trauma and tragedy. Miura's storytelling delves into the complexities of human emotion, portraying guts as a deeply scarred individual navigating a brutal and fantastical realm filled with supernatural horrors and human malice.

Guts’ journey, from his mercenary days in the Band of the Hawk to the traumatic Eclipse event, unfolds against the backdrop of a world teetering on the edge of despair. Miura weaves a narrative that transcends typical fantasy boundaries, exploring themes of destiny, friendship, and the pursuit of identity. Guts’ relationships with characters like Griffith and Casca add layers of nuance to the story, revealing the fragility of human connections amidst overwhelming adversity.

Berserk's world is a character in itself—a grotesque and captivating backdrop mirroring the psychological and physical struggles of its inhabitants. From towering apostles to the ethereal realm of the God Hand.

Berserk's success lies not only in its evocative art but also in Miura's ability to elevate manga storytelling. The series is a visceral journey through the darkest aspects of the human soul, challenging readers to confront the brutality of existence and the indomitable will to persist in the face of insurmountable odds.

It's more than a manga; it is a literary and artistic masterpiece. A legacy which endures through Guts’ epic saga.

Ben Krefta is on a journey to becoming an artist worthy of creating a Berserk fan art tribute

Berserk left a lasting impact on Ben, inspiring his creative journey and leading him to eventually create this artwork. His artistic growth mirrors Guts' relentless spirit, a character known for his resilience in the face of tough challenges.

Decades ago, when Ben first got into the dark world of Berserk, he was hooked on Kentaro Miura's storytelling. But back then, Ben admits he wasn't skilled enough to capture the depth of Guts' character. In fact he could barely draw at all! Despite many frustrations, his determination to continually improve, led to years of practice and honing his skills. Deciding to document his progress, Ben created these progress images and time-lapse video below showcasing the stages of shading and rendering. This wasn't just about the final artwork; it was a nod to the countless hours spent perfecting his craft, a visual journey paralleling Guts' struggles in the pages of Berserk.

[caption id="attachment_7089" align="aligncenter" width="714"] Initial Line Art[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_7088" align="aligncenter" width="714"] Planning Colours[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_7090" align="aligncenter" width="714"] Main Shading and Rendering Complete[/caption]

[caption id="attachment_7091" align="aligncenter" width="714"] A few final notes before completion[/caption]

The Video

The time-lapse video below reveals the evolution from an initial sketch fully rendered finished art. Ben uses Photoshop with his trusty Wacom graphics tablet to add colour, depth and texture to Guts' worn appearance. Each shading layer is a deliberate choice, using his signature comic book airbrush style to add contrast and vibrance into the artwork. The video captures the gradual refinement of details and subtle nuances breathing life into the two-dimensional drawing. It's not just a showcase of technique; it's a visual narrative echoing the arduous journey of artist and character.

Ben hopes that sharing the creative process, the struggles, and triumphs of Ben's artistic journey will inspire others, in the same way Guts and Berserk did to him. The final stages of rendering mark a personal triumph. The last brushstroke isn't just about completing an artwork; it's overcoming self-doubt and creative hurdles.

A Deviantart meme thingy

I drew the cyberpunk ninja Bengosha a long time ago. He was originally created for a character design contest and then used as a character example in the book 'The Art of Drawing Manga'. This year I started working on a new book about digital techniques due for release in 2014 and decided to include a Bengosha revamp.

I still like a few aspects of the original, even if it is a very old piece, although I hope anyone else agrees that the new art is an improvement! I've never been an amazing artist and probably never will, but I still like to think I'm pretty good at busting out a cool picture here and there when I put in a lot of time and effort :)

During the start of the year I was asked to give 1-1 tuition to a talented 11 year old girl interested in bettering her anime and manga drawing skills. Although being more used to older students working solely with digital media, it worked out well. The tuition consisted of setting small projects, demonstrating, drawing together or sometimes just overseeing with the lessons shifting more towards digital as the weeks went on. Here's a compilation of some of the sketches I'd worked on during our process:
Drawing heads, discussing shading, coloured pencils, inking.

Hands, time limit life drawing from manikins, chibi!

Constructing figures, Posemaniacs time limit reference drawing and adaptation.

Time limit Backgrounds using reference.

Photoshop original character drawing using Intuos Pen & Touch. Student used Intuos Pro & a Cintiq 22HD. Who's Jimmy Jonh?

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is Gothic Lolita?

Gothic Lolita is a unique fashion subculture that emerged in Japan, characterized by a blend of Victorian and Rococo-inspired clothing with a dark, gothic aesthetic. This style is part of the larger Lolita fashion movement, which emphasizes modesty, femininity, and elegance. Gothic Lolita, however, incorporates darker elements such as black or deep-coloured dresses, elaborate lace, and accessories, often accompanied by Gothic makeup and hairstyles.

The fashion originated in the late 20th century in Japan and was heavily influenced by the visual kei music scene, where musicians embraced flamboyant and theatrical fashion. Designers like Mana, a guitarist known for his involvement in the band Malice Mizer, played a significant role in popularizing Gothic Lolita through his fashion brand Moi-même-Moitié.

Gothic Lolita is adored for its intricate and doll-like aesthetics, creating a fantasy world that allows individuals to express their creativity and rebellion against mainstream fashion norms. The emphasis on modesty and elegance, combined with the dark and mysterious undertones, gives wearers a sense of empowerment and escapism. The fashion has transcended its Japanese origins and gained international popularity, with enthusiasts appreciating its artistic and avant-garde nature, as well as the sense of community it fosters through events, social media, and dedicated fashion subcultures around the world.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Leviathan?

The term "Leviathan" has historical, religious, and literary connotations. Historically, it referred to a giant sea monster or creature, often associated with chaos and the primordial forces of the ocean. This concept has roots in various mythologies and ancient cultures, with the Leviathan symbolizing the untamed power of the seas.

Religiously, the Leviathan is mentioned in the Bible, particularly in the Book of Job and the Book of Isaiah. In these texts, it is depicted as a powerful and fearsome sea monster, representing chaos and the forces of evil that humanity must contend with.

In a literary context, the concept of the Leviathan is explored in-depth by philosopher Thomas Hobbes in his work "Leviathan," published in 1651. Here, Hobbes uses the Leviathan as a metaphor for a powerful, all-encompassing government that maintains order and prevents the "war of all against all" in society. The Leviathan, in this sense, is a symbol of sovereign authority and social contract.

Overall, whether as a mythical sea creature, a biblical symbol, or a political metaphor, the term Leviathan carries rich and varied meanings across different cultural, religious, and philosophical contexts. It embodies notions of power, chaos, and the struggle for order in the face of formidable forces.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Werewolf?

A werewolf is a mythical creature often depicted in folklore and popular culture as a human being who possesses the ability to transform into a wolf or a wolf-like creature, typically during the full moon. The concept of werewolves has roots in various cultures worldwide, with variations in their characteristics and origins.

In many traditional European legends, a person could become a werewolf through various means, such as being bitten by another werewolf or through a curse. The transformation is often associated with uncontrollable aggression and a heightened connection to primal instincts, symbolizing the duality between human and animal nature.

The portrayal of werewolves has evolved in modern literature, film, and television, incorporating different aspects of the myth into various genres, including horror, fantasy, and romance. Werewolves are frequently depicted as powerful, fearsome creatures, sometimes struggling with their dual nature and the consequences of their transformations.

The myth of the werewolf taps into primal fears and cultural narratives surrounding the wilderness, the moon, and the supernatural. It serves as a symbol for the struggle between civilization and the untamed forces of nature. The werewolf myth endures as a captivating and enduring element in the folklore and storytelling traditions of numerous societies.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Mutant Zombie?

A Mutant Zombie is a fictional creature commonly found in various forms of popular culture, particularly in the horror and science fiction genres. The concept typically involves a variation of the traditional zombie, characterized by mutations that go beyond the standard portrayal of reanimated corpses. These mutations often result from exposure to radiation, experimental chemicals, or other unnatural phenomena, enhancing the zombies' physical attributes and abilities.

Unlike conventional zombies that are depicted as slow-moving and lacking cognitive function, Mutant Zombies may possess increased strength, agility, and sometimes even intelligence. The mutations can manifest in various ways, such as additional limbs, distorted features, or heightened senses, making them more formidable and challenging adversaries for protagonists in stories.

The idea of Mutant Zombies has been popularized in video games, movies, and literature, allowing creators to explore new and imaginative variations of the classic zombie archetype. This creative twist adds an extra layer of danger and unpredictability to the zombie narrative, providing storytellers with opportunities to explore themes of scientific experimentation gone awry, the consequences of environmental disasters, or the horrors of a world ravaged by both the undead and the consequences of human tampering with nature. Mutant Zombies, therefore, serve as a compelling and versatile element in the broader spectrum of zombie fiction.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Military Soldier?

A military soldier is an integral part of a nation's armed forces, trained and equipped to defend and safeguard the interests of their country. These individuals undergo extensive training, both physically and mentally, to prepare for a variety of tasks and missions. The role of a military soldier encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including combat operations, peacekeeping missions, disaster relief efforts, and supporting national security initiatives.

Soldiers operate within a hierarchical structure, following a chain of command led by officers. They are often organized into units with specific roles, such as infantry, artillery, or specialized support units. The duties of a soldier can involve everything from patrolling and reconnaissance to engaging in active combat, depending on the nature of the mission and the branch of the military.

Discipline, teamwork, and adaptability are crucial attributes for military soldiers. They are trained to work cohesively under various conditions and to follow orders to maintain unit cohesion and mission success. Soldiers may be called upon to serve in challenging and high-stress environments, requiring resilience and commitment to their duty.

The commitment of military soldiers goes beyond the physical aspects of combat; they are bound by a code of ethics and are expected to uphold international laws and conventions during armed conflicts. The dedication of soldiers plays a vital role in ensuring the safety, security, and sovereignty of their nation.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a Mecha Pilot?

A mecha pilot is an individual trained to operate and control large humanoid robots known as "mecha." The term "mecha" is derived from the word "mechanical," and these machines are a staple of science fiction, particularly in anime, manga, and other related genres. Mecha pilots, often portrayed as skilled and heroic individuals, play a central role in piloting these colossal machines during various missions and battles.

The mecha themselves are versatile robots equipped with advanced weaponry, often used for both military and civilian purposes in their respective fictional universes. Mecha pilots are tasked with navigating these machines, engaging in combat, and utilizing the mecha's capabilities to accomplish specific objectives. The complexity of mecha operations requires extensive training in piloting skills, tactical decision-making, and understanding the technological intricacies of the mecha they operate.

Mecha pilot characters are featured prominently in popular works like "Gundam," "Neon Genesis Evangelion," and "Code Geass." Their stories often explore themes of war, identity, and the symbiotic relationship between human pilots and their robotic counterparts. The mecha pilot archetype has become iconic in geek culture, symbolizing bravery, heroism, and the fusion of cutting-edge technology with human skill and determination.

Character example for an upcoming book project I'm working on.

What is a manga warrior girl?

A warrior manga girl is a dynamic and often central female character featured in manga, the Japanese style of comic books or graphic novels. These characters are known for their formidable combat skills, bravery, and often possess unique abilities or wield powerful weapons. The term encompasses a broad range of personalities, backgrounds, and storylines, making it a diverse and inclusive category within the manga genre.

Warrior manga girls are not limited to a specific setting; they can exist in historical, fantasy, science fiction, or contemporary worlds. They might be skilled swordswomen, martial artists, archers, or have access to magical powers or advanced technology. The narratives often revolve around their journeys, exploring themes of self-discovery, overcoming challenges, and participating in epic battles or quests.

These characters challenge traditional gender norms, showcasing strength, resilience, and leadership qualities. Iconic examples include characters like Sailor Moon, who combines her duties as a magical warrior with themes of friendship and love, and Nausicaä from "Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind," who is a compassionate environmentalist and skilled pilot in a post-apocalyptic world.

Some argue that the representation of warrior manga girls reflects evolving societal attitudes towards gender roles, emphasizing empowerment and providing readers with diverse and compelling female characters who contribute significantly to the world of manga.