Although to non - expert Western eyes the term manga might conjure up a single graphic style , it simply refers to Japanese comic art and to the comics themselves . However , despite there being many different visual styles in Japanese comics , there are some underlying elements that represent a shared acsthetic , giving the medium a distinct visual edge .
Stylization is probably the most significant recurring element of manga artwork . The characters are realized with stylish yet clean and consistent visuals that concentrate on the characters ' charm and expressiveness . Minimalism is another readily identifiable characteristic of almost all forms of manga . One of the most important aspects of the style , especially when working on story - based dlustrations realizing that you don't have to draw every detail you can achieve a greater effect through the power of suggestion .
A simple example would be to look at the noses of manga characters , you'll notice that some artists , when drawing at certain angles , don't draw the nose at all . The reader isn't confused by this , and the image remains clean elegant and minimal . Analysing many of the common elements of manga will help you appreciate the nuances of the art form , and apply them to your own work.