How to Draw a Japanese Wave
Hey creatives! Let's learn how to draw a Japanese wave. We'll be drawing in an old-school style that made these types of artwork have a distinctive look.
This drawing might even look familiar to you. I modeled this drawing after "The Great Wave of Kanagawa" which is a famous woodcut by artist Katsushika Hokusai.
Let your imagination flow as you bring your Japanese styled wave to life. Remember, it's all about enjoying the process and expressing yourself through art. Every stroke of your pencil is a wave of creativity crashing onto the shore of your paper. Okay maybe I am being a bit dramatic, but you know what I'm saying?!
Start by sketching the fluid and graceful outline of the waves, capturing its movement and energy. Towards the end of the lesson I'll show you how to add colors to make your wave come alive, and don't forget to add some details like foam and swells for that extra oomph!
With each drawing, you empower your creativity, exploring the wonders of art and imagination. So grab your materials and unleash your inner artist.
Estimated Time: 30 minutes
Level: Intermediate
Materials
- Pencil
- Drawing Paper
- Crayons or Colored Pencils
- Black Marker (optional)
Lesson: How to Draw a Japanese Wave
Today, we'll dive into the world of drawing a traditional looking Japanese wave. We'll get it done in just 15 easy steps. Grab your colors and follow my lead.
Outline the Main Wave Shape
Begin by drawing a large curved line to form the basic shape of the main wave.
Add the Crest of the Wave
Draw a wavy line to form the topmost part of the wave known as the crest.
Form the Lip of the Wave
Form the curling lip of the wave as shown.
Add Smaller Waves
Now, draw two more curved lines beneath the main wave.
Draw the Crest of the Smaller Wave
Create a shorter wavy line to form the crest of the smaller wave.
Outline the Lip of the Smaller Wave
Draw small, curling lines to outline the lip of the smaller wave, similar to the previous step.
Add Texture to the Wave Body
Add wavy lines following the direction of each wave to give it a sense of movement.
Create Splash Detail
Add small circles at the crests and within the waves to draw the splashes of water.
Add Boats
Draw the elongated and pointed shape of the three boats.
Form the Inner Wave Lines
Form curved lines within the wave to emphasize the flow of water.
Draw Mt. Fuji
Draw the cone-shaped Mt. Fuji in the background.
Color Mt. Fuji
Color the base of Mt. Fuji with dark gray. Then, shade the summit with white.
Fill in the Boats
Color the boats with shades of orange.
Shade the Waves
First, apply white and light blue to the splashes and the top part of the waves. Next, use dark shades of blue to color the body of the waves.
Fill in the Sky
Finally, fill in the sky with yellow.
Artist & Educator