Android 17 fan art: it’s not just drawings; it’s a vibrant testament to a character who evolved from a rebellious antagonist to a key player in the Dragon Ball universe. We’re diving into a world where digital brushes and traditional pencils breathe life into this complex cyborg, exploring his striking appearance, from his signature spiky hair to his iconic attire.
His journey, marked by both defiance and unexpected alliances, has captivated fans worldwide, inspiring countless artists to capture his essence.
From dynamic action sequences showcasing his incredible power to tender depictions of his bond with Android 18, the art reflects the multifaceted nature of Android
17. Artists utilize a variety of styles, from the classic anime aesthetic to modern Western comic book influences, each bringing their unique interpretation. They experiment with digital painting, traditional drawing, and mixed media, utilizing these mediums to create stunning visuals.
We’ll delve into the artistic techniques, the common themes explored, and the inspirations behind these captivating creations.
Character Overview: Android 17
Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Android 17, a character whose evolution within the Dragon Ball universe is nothing short of remarkable. From his initial introduction as a ruthless antagonist to his eventual transformation into a hero, Android 17’s journey is a compelling testament to character development. This overview will explore his appearance, personality, and significant contributions to the Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super sagas.
Appearance
Android 17, originally known as Lapis, is a striking figure. His appearance has remained relatively consistent throughout the series, solidifying his distinct identity.Android 17’s physical attributes include:
- Hair: He sports short, black hair, often styled in a slightly messy manner, contributing to his rebellious image.
- Clothing: His attire typically consists of a black and orange jumpsuit, featuring the Red Ribbon Army logo on the chest, a vest, and blue jeans. This outfit is iconic and instantly recognizable.
- Build: Android 17 possesses a lean, athletic build, reflecting his enhanced physical capabilities as an android.
- Eyes: He has blue eyes, which, despite his initially antagonistic nature, reflect a certain depth of character.
Personality Traits
Android 17’s personality is a complex tapestry woven with threads of rebellion, independence, and a surprising capacity for growth. He is not just a machine; he is a person.His defining characteristics include:
- Rebellious Nature: Android 17’s rebellious streak is evident from his first appearance. He is fiercely independent and often acts on his own terms.
- Aloofness: He can be distant and detached, showing a general disinterest in others’ concerns, especially in his earlier appearances.
- Evolving Relationships: Over time, Android 17’s relationships evolve. His connection with his sister, Android 18, is particularly important. He also develops a degree of respect and camaraderie with the Z Fighters.
- Protectiveness: Despite his initial lack of concern, he demonstrates a protective nature towards his family, especially his wife and children.
- Strategic Mind: He shows moments of strategic thinking and tactical awareness during battles.
Role in Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super
Android 17’s significance in the Dragon Ball universe extends far beyond his initial role as a villain. He has played crucial roles in both Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super.His key moments include:
- Androids Saga (Dragon Ball Z): Android 17, along with Android 18, is a major antagonist in the Androids Saga. They wreak havoc on the world, challenging the Z Fighters’ strength.
- Cell Saga (Dragon Ball Z): He is absorbed by Cell, becoming a stepping stone in Cell’s evolution. This event highlights his vulnerability and the danger he poses to himself.
- Dragon Ball Super: Android 17 is resurrected and plays a pivotal role in the Tournament of Power. He demonstrates remarkable strength, strategic prowess, and a willingness to fight for the survival of Universe 7.
- Tournament of Power: He showcases incredible teamwork and sacrifice during the Tournament of Power, ultimately proving instrumental in Universe 7’s victory. This is a turning point for the character.
- Super Dragon Balls: He is granted a wish from the Super Dragon Balls after the Tournament of Power, which reveals his compassionate side.
Fan Art Styles and Techniques
The world of Android 17 fan art is a vibrant tapestry, woven with diverse artistic styles and techniques. Fan artists draw inspiration from various sources, adapting and blending these influences to create unique and captivating depictions of the character. This section will delve into the common artistic styles and techniques employed by these creative individuals, providing a glimpse into their artistic processes.
Common Artistic Styles
Fan art often pays homage to the original source material while incorporating the artist’s unique vision. A variety of artistic styles are utilized when creating fan art of Android 17.* Anime: This style, originating from Japan, is perhaps the most prevalent. Characterized by large eyes, dynamic poses, and vibrant colors, it closely mirrors the style of theDragon Ball* anime series.
Artists often capture Android 17’s stoic demeanor and powerful physique through exaggerated proportions and dramatic shading.* Manga: Similar to anime, manga also originates from Japan, but it emphasizes the art of comics, including the use of panels, speech bubbles, and detailed line work. Fan artists may adapt manga styles to portray Android 17 in various action sequences, showcasing his strength and agility.* Western Comic Book Styles: This encompasses a range of styles influenced by American comic books.
These styles can vary widely, from realistic depictions with detailed anatomy to more stylized approaches with bold lines and vibrant colors. Artists using this style might emphasize Android 17’s rugged appearance and formidable fighting abilities.
Popular Artistic Techniques
The techniques employed by fan artists are as varied as the styles they adopt. The following are some popular methods used to bring Android 17 to life.* Digital Painting: This technique utilizes digital software, such as Photoshop or Clip Studio Paint, to create artwork. Digital painting allows for a high degree of control over color, texture, and detail.
Artists can experiment with various effects, such as lighting and shading, to enhance the visual impact of their work.* Traditional Drawing: Traditional drawing encompasses techniques using pencils, pens, markers, and other physical media. Artists often use traditional drawing to create sketches, line art, and finished illustrations. The tactile nature of traditional drawing allows for a different level of expressiveness.* Mixed Media: Mixed media combines different art mediums to create a unique effect.
For example, an artist might use pencil for the initial sketch, then ink for the line art, and finally watercolor or digital painting for the coloring. This allows for a blend of textures and styles, adding depth and interest to the artwork.
Comparison of Art Mediums
The choice of art medium significantly impacts the final outcome of a fan art piece. Each medium offers unique advantages and disadvantages.
| Medium | Pros | Cons | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Painting |
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A digital painting of Android 17, showcasing detailed rendering of his mechanical parts and dynamic lighting effects, like those found in the works of artists like Loish. The image demonstrates a smooth, polished finish, emphasizing the character’s strength. |
| Traditional Drawing |
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A pencil drawing of Android 17 in a dynamic pose, with visible cross-hatching to create shadows and texture, similar to the work of artists like Kim Jung Gi. The drawing captures the character’s essence through precise linework and shading. |
| Mixed Media |
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A mixed-media piece that incorporates ink Artikels, watercolor washes for the skin and clothing, and digital enhancements for the energy effects surrounding Android 17. The artwork is reminiscent of the style of artists like Ashley Wood, who are known for their experimental approaches. |
Common Themes and Depictions
Fan art, a vibrant testament to the enduring popularity of characters like Android 17, often explores a range of themes and scenarios. These artistic expressions not only celebrate the character’s core traits but also delve into hypothetical situations and relationships, offering a diverse perspective on the beloved android. The following sections will provide a deeper look at these recurring themes and how artists creatively portray them.
Action Scenes
Android 17, with his formidable power and combat prowess, naturally lends himself to dynamic action sequences. Fan artists frequently showcase his fighting abilities, capturing the intensity and energy of his battles.
- Explosive Confrontations: These artworks often depict 17 in the midst of a fierce battle, perhaps against a powerful foe like Cell or a hypothetical adversary. The artist might focus on the raw power of his energy blasts, the speed of his movements, and the overall chaos of the fight. Think of a composition with a stark contrast between vibrant energy attacks and the gritty details of a destroyed environment.
- Strategic Poses: Other depictions might emphasize 17’s strategic thinking and calculated approach to combat. The art could showcase him analyzing an opponent, planning an attack, or swiftly dodging an incoming strike. These pieces often convey a sense of focus and determination.
- Motion and Impact: Capturing motion is crucial. Artists employ techniques like motion blur and dynamic perspectives to emphasize the force and speed of 17’s attacks. The impact of a punch or the energy released during an explosion are meticulously rendered to create a sense of realism and power.
Character Interactions
Beyond action, fan art explores the intricate relationships within the Dragon Ball universe, particularly the bonds between characters. Android 17’s interactions, especially with his sister, Android 18, are a popular subject.
- Sibling Bond: The core of their relationship, a mixture of loyalty, affection, and mutual respect, is a frequent theme. Artists depict moments of quiet companionship, shared glances, and playful banter to illustrate their close connection.
- Team-Ups: Fan art frequently envisions scenarios where 17 and 18 team up, often in combat situations. These depictions highlight their synchronized attacks, coordinated strategies, and the strength they derive from working together.
- Emotional Depth: Artists also delve into the more complex aspects of their relationship, exploring moments of vulnerability, concern, and the underlying emotional connection that binds them. These pieces often focus on subtle expressions and body language to convey the depth of their bond.
Alternative Universes
The limitless potential of fan art allows for exploration of alternative scenarios, offering a fresh perspective on Android 17’s character and his role within the Dragon Ball universe.
- Different Outcomes: Artists might explore “what if” scenarios, such as 17 surviving the Cell Games without being absorbed or a world where he and 18 actively participate in the fight against Buu.
- Future Settings: Futuristic settings are common, showing 17 in advanced technological environments. These depictions often feature him with futuristic weaponry, advanced cybernetic enhancements, or navigating a technologically advanced world.
- Crossovers: Crossovers with other anime or video game franchises allow for imaginative combinations. Artists may portray 17 interacting with characters from different universes, creating unique and unexpected scenarios.
Android 17 and Android 18’s Relationship
The sibling relationship between Android 17 and Android 18 is a central theme in fan art, consistently portrayed with a focus on their deep connection and shared history. Artists often depict their bond through various visual cues.
- Shared Moments: Images frequently show them engaging in everyday activities together, like casual conversations, shared meals, or simply relaxing in each other’s company. These scenes highlight the normalcy and affection within their relationship.
- Protective Instincts: A recurring theme is the protective nature they have towards each other. Artworks might showcase 17 defending 18 from danger or 18 supporting 17 in a challenging situation. This underscores their unwavering loyalty.
- Subtle Expressions: Artists use subtle facial expressions and body language to convey the depth of their relationship. A gentle touch, a concerned glance, or a shared smile can communicate volumes about their bond.
Hypothetical Fan Art: Futuristic Setting
Imagine a fan art piece showcasing Android 17 in a futuristic setting, a world where technology has advanced beyond even the Dragon Ball universe’s expectations.
- Environment: The setting is a sprawling metropolis, a cityscape of towering skyscrapers connected by sleek, automated transport systems. The buildings are constructed from shimmering, advanced materials, reflecting holographic advertisements and the neon glow of flying vehicles. In the background, a massive space elevator pierces the clouds, a symbol of humanity’s reach into the cosmos. The overall aesthetic blends sleek, futuristic design with elements of natural landscapes, perhaps incorporating vertical gardens and artificial waterfalls.
- Android 17: He is depicted in a modified outfit, perhaps a tactical jumpsuit with integrated armor plating, reflecting the futuristic environment. His attire is dark, with glowing energy conduits running along the seams. He carries a technologically advanced weapon, a plasma rifle that emits a faint blue aura. His expression is focused, perhaps a slight frown as he scans his surroundings.
His eyes gleam with a subtle cybernetic enhancement.
- Action: He is shown navigating this advanced city, possibly on a mission to defend it. Perhaps he’s perched atop a skyscraper, surveying the scene with a focused intensity. Alternatively, he might be engaged in a high-speed chase through the city streets, dodging automated drones and energy blasts. The artwork emphasizes the dynamic interplay between the character and his environment, highlighting the contrast between 17’s natural abilities and the technological sophistication of the setting.
The lighting is dramatic, with neon reflections casting shadows and highlighting the details of his outfit and weapon.
Artistic Inspirations and Influences
The creation of Android 17, a complex character in the Dragon Ball universe, is a testament to the power of artistic influence. The character’s design, personality, and role are a fascinating blend of inspiration from various sources, reflecting a thoughtful approach to character development. Examining these influences provides valuable insight into the creative process behind the character’s creation and subsequent interpretation by fan artists.
Character Design Influences
The character design of Android 17 is a product of several influences, drawing from both the Dragon Ball universe and broader pop culture elements.
- The original Dragon Ball Z series itself serves as a foundational influence. Akira Toriyama, the creator, established a distinct visual style characterized by bold lines, dynamic action poses, and vibrant color palettes. This style, replicated and adapted by fan artists, is evident in the emphasis on athletic builds, flowing hair, and energetic expressions.
- Anime archetypes and tropes are also evident. Android 17’s rebellious nature, initially presented as a villainous streak, aligns with the “bad boy” trope common in anime. His cool demeanor and disregard for authority, while evolving over the course of the series, resonate with audiences familiar with such character types. This influence can be observed in the frequent depictions of him with a confident smirk, leaning casually, or engaging in acts of defiance.
- Pop culture references, though not as direct as some other anime characters, subtly shape Android 17’s appearance and attitude. The use of denim clothing, a seemingly minor detail, evokes a sense of casual rebellion, a look popular in certain subcultures. This contributes to the character’s overall image of independence and self-assurance.
Inspiration from Dragon Ball Z and Related Media
Fan artists draw extensively from the source material, reinterpreting and expanding upon the original Dragon Ball Z series and related media. This inspiration is evident in various ways.
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Artists often depict key moments from the series, such as Android 17’s battles with other characters. These illustrations may showcase iconic scenes, such as the battles with Cell or his reunion with his sister, Android 18. This offers artists the chance to capture the intensity and drama of the original series.
The artwork might feature close-up shots of Android 17’s determined expression during combat, with energy blasts illuminating the scene, mirroring the show’s intense action sequences.
- The exploration of Android 17’s character arc, including his transformation from a villain to a family man, provides rich material. Fan art frequently explores his interactions with his family, particularly his wife and children. These depictions humanize the character, highlighting his softer side. An artist might create a tender image of Android 17 playing with his children, a stark contrast to his earlier aggressive nature.
- Artists also use their own artistic skills to reimagine Android 17 in different scenarios. This might involve portraying him in alternative universes, such as a superhero setting or a cyberpunk environment. Such variations allow artists to experiment with different styles and themes, keeping the character fresh and engaging. For example, a fan artist might depict Android 17 in a futuristic setting, complete with cybernetic enhancements and neon lighting, highlighting his technological nature.
Incorporating Unique Artistic Styles, Android 17 fan art
Fan artists possess a remarkable ability to blend their individual artistic styles with the established character design of Android 17. This process allows for a diverse range of interpretations.
- The application of various art styles, from traditional to digital, adds to the variety of fan art. Some artists prefer to use traditional media, such as pencils, watercolors, or acrylics, to create detailed illustrations. Others embrace digital art, utilizing software to achieve unique effects and experiment with color palettes. A fan artist using watercolors might create a soft, ethereal depiction of Android 17, contrasting with the character’s often harsh appearance.
- Artists often experiment with different color palettes and shading techniques. Some may choose to replicate the vibrant colors of the original series, while others may opt for a more muted or stylized approach. This can significantly alter the mood and atmosphere of the artwork. An artist might use a limited color palette to emphasize the character’s serious demeanor, or they might utilize vibrant colors to convey the energy of a battle scene.
- Artists often personalize their depictions of Android 17 by altering his expression, clothing, or environment. This creates a sense of individuality and ownership over the character. For instance, an artist might draw Android 17 wearing custom clothing, incorporating elements from other pop culture references or their own personal style.
Creating Android 17 Fan Art
So, you’re ready to bring the indomitable Android 17 to life on paper or screen? Excellent! Whether you’re a seasoned artist or just starting out, creating fan art is a fantastic way to express your creativity and celebrate a character you love. Let’s get down to business and craft some awesome Android 17 art!
Step-by-Step Guide for a Basic Android 17 Drawing
The following steps provide a clear path to sketching your own Android 17. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if your first attempt isn’t a masterpiece!
- Start with a Basic Shape: Begin with a simple construction of shapes. A circle for the head, a rectangular block for the torso, and lines for the limbs. Think of it like building a skeleton for your drawing.
- Refine the Head and Body: Refine the head by adding the basic features: eyes, nose, and mouth. Define the shape of the hair and body, considering Android 17’s lean physique. Use reference images of the character to ensure accuracy.
- Sketch the Outfit: Add the details of his outfit. The iconic orange and black uniform is a must-have! Pay attention to the folds and wrinkles in the clothing to give it a realistic feel.
- Add Details: Now’s the time to add the smaller details. His ear piercings, the shape of his eyes, and the highlights in his hair. This is where you really start to bring the character to life.
- Refine the Line Art: Once you’re happy with the sketch, it’s time to refine the line art. Use a darker pencil or pen to define the final lines. Erase any unnecessary construction lines.
- Coloring (Optional): If you’re going for a colored piece, this is where you start. Use colored pencils, markers, or digital painting techniques to add color. More on that later!
Software and Tools for Digital Android 17 Fan Art
Digital art offers a wealth of tools and possibilities. Let’s explore the essential software and hardware you’ll need to bring your Android 17 to life digitally.
- Drawing Software: The heart of your digital art setup. Popular choices include:
- Adobe Photoshop: Industry standard, offering a vast array of tools and features.
- Clip Studio Paint: Specifically designed for comics and illustrations, known for its excellent brushes and ease of use.
- Krita: A free and open-source option, powerful and user-friendly.
- Procreate (iPad): A great choice for tablet users, known for its intuitive interface and performance.
- Hardware:
- Drawing Tablet: A must-have for digital art. Options range from basic tablets to those with built-in screens. Wacom, Huion, and XP-Pen are popular brands.
- Stylus: The digital equivalent of a pencil or brush. Often comes with the drawing tablet.
- Computer: A computer with sufficient processing power and RAM to handle the software and large image files.
- Optional: A second monitor can be helpful for displaying reference images or your color palette.
- Brushes and Assets: Most software comes with a library of brushes, but you can also download custom brushes to achieve specific effects. Consider looking for brushes that mimic traditional media, such as pencils, watercolors, or oil paints.
- Reference Images: Gather plenty of reference images of Android 17 to help you with anatomy, clothing, and overall style. The internet is your friend!
Color Palette, Lighting, and Shading Techniques for a Dynamic Pose Illustration
Let’s dive into the visual language that makes an illustration truly pop. This section is about how to create a dynamic illustration of Android 17 in action.
For this example, let’s imagine Android 17 is in mid-air, firing a Ki Blast.
- Color Palette:
- Primary Colors: The foundation. Use the classic orange, black, and green from his outfit. These colors are instantly recognizable.
- Secondary Colors: Introduce a vibrant blue or yellow for the Ki Blast. This contrast will draw the eye.
- Shading Colors: Use a slightly darker shade of the base colors for shadows. For example, a darker orange for shading the orange sections of his uniform.
- Highlight Colors: Use a lighter shade of the base colors for highlights. A slightly brighter orange can be used to highlight the areas of the orange on his uniform that are exposed to light.
- Lighting:
- Source: Determine the light source. Is it coming from the side, above, or below? This will affect where the shadows fall. Let’s assume the light source is from the top left.
- Directional Light: This creates strong shadows and highlights, emphasizing the form of the character.
- Rim Lighting: Adding a bright Artikel along the edges of the character, particularly where the light source hits, can make him pop from the background.
- Shading Techniques:
- Cell Shading: A classic anime style, using distinct areas of shadow and highlight. This is a great choice for Android 17.
- Soft Shading: Blending the colors for a more realistic look. Use a soft brush to create gradients and smooth transitions between colors.
- Highlights: Add bright highlights to the hair, eyes, and areas of the clothing where the light hits directly. This gives a sense of realism.
- Shadows: Define the shadows cast by the character’s body, clothing folds, and hair. Remember to consider the light source.
Consider how the pose affects the lighting and shading. A dynamic pose, like Android 17 firing a Ki Blast, means the light will interact with the body and clothing in complex ways. Pay close attention to the direction of the light and how it affects the different surfaces. Remember, it’s about making your artwork visually appealing and capturing the essence of the character.
Fan Art Community and Platforms: Android 17 Fan Art
The digital realm serves as a vibrant hub for the Android 17 fan art community, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a shared appreciation for the character. Various online platforms offer spaces for artists to showcase their work, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and receive feedback. These platforms have become integral to the Dragon Ball Z fandom, significantly impacting fan engagement and artistic development.
Online Platforms for Sharing and Viewing
The internet has provided numerous avenues for the dissemination and appreciation of fan art. The following platforms are particularly popular among Android 17 art creators and viewers:
- DeviantArt: A long-standing platform, DeviantArt provides a comprehensive space for artists to upload their work, build portfolios, and engage with a large audience. It features a robust search function, allowing users to easily discover Android 17-themed artwork.
- Pixiv: Primarily popular in Japan, Pixiv is a platform favored by many artists, including those creating Dragon Ball Z fan art. It emphasizes original artwork and offers features like ranking systems and user-generated tags, facilitating art discovery.
- Twitter: Although not designed solely for art, Twitter is a significant platform for artists to share their work, engage with followers, and participate in art challenges and trends. It offers instant sharing capabilities and allows for direct communication with fans.
- Instagram: A visual-centric platform, Instagram is ideal for showcasing artwork through image and video posts. Artists often use relevant hashtags, such as #android17, #dragonballzfanart, and #dbzart, to increase visibility.
- ArtStation: This platform is particularly favored by professional and aspiring artists, offering a professional-looking portfolio presentation and community features.
- Facebook: Facebook groups and pages dedicated to Dragon Ball Z and fan art provide another avenue for sharing and engaging with artwork.
The Role of Fan Art in the Dragon Ball Z Community
Fan art serves as a powerful force within the Dragon Ball Z community. It enhances fan engagement and strengthens the connection between fans and the franchise.
- Enhancing Fan Engagement: Fan art inspires discussions, debates, and shared excitement about the series. The creation and consumption of artwork fuel ongoing conversations within the fandom.
- Strengthening Community Bonds: By sharing their interpretations and skills, artists build community. Common interests and appreciation of the art create a sense of belonging.
- Expanding the Franchise’s Reach: Fan art introduces the Dragon Ball Z universe to new audiences, especially through social media platforms, extending the series’ influence and reach.
- Celebrating Character and Story: Fan art provides a way for fans to show their love for characters like Android 17, and it can also offer unique interpretations of the story.
Tips for Fan Artists to Gain Visibility and Recognition
Navigating the online art world can be challenging. Here are some key strategies to boost visibility and recognition for Android 17 fan art:
- Consistent Posting: Regular uploads keep your work visible and encourage audience engagement. Create a schedule to maintain consistency.
- Use Relevant Hashtags: Use hashtags like #android17, #dragonballzfanart, and #dbzart to help people find your work. Also, consider more specific tags related to the art style or scene depicted.
- Engage with the Community: Comment on other artists’ work, participate in challenges, and respond to feedback to build relationships and expand your network.
- Cross-Promotion: Share your art across multiple platforms. If you are active on DeviantArt, also post on Instagram and Twitter, and vice versa.
- High-Quality Presentation: Ensure your artwork is well-lit, clearly presented, and properly sized for each platform. High-resolution images are crucial.
- Consider Commissions: Open up commissions to receive direct requests from fans and gain experience creating art based on specific needs.
- Collaborate: Work with other artists on joint projects or art trades to increase visibility by tapping into each other’s audiences.
- Participate in Contests and Challenges: These events offer a platform to showcase your art and gain recognition.
