Masashi Kishimoto’s Boruto has gained much criticism since the moment it was born. From the lack of the OG characters to an ill-explained villainous group, the series has faced considerable backlash. But the one thing no one can argue against is Mikio Ikemoto’s art.
Sure, Naruto has suddenly lost his iconic hair and become a middle-aged man, but Ikemoto has drawn some detailed panels and dashing character designs so far. In an interview by MangaPLUS, the artist reveals everything you need to know about the Boruto illustration process.
Mikio Ikemoto Faces Restrictions While Drawing Boruto
In the interview, Mikio Ikemoto was asked if he was closely attached to the characters he drew. The illustrator answered that most of the time he is closely attached to the characters he creates. Thus, it is easier for him to empathize with Sarada, Kawaki, and the main characters other than the protagonist.
Because Boruto’s actions are pretty much predetermined in the storyline, there are many restrictions in his depictions. On the other hand, I have more freedom with other characters, so they are easier to depict.
Since Boruto is the protagonist of the series, his depiction needs to be accurate to his personality. Thus, Ikemoto must not have as much freedom in creating his panels. While it is left unsaid, it seems like Masashi Kishimoto has very strict opinion on how Boruto should be drawn.
Ikemoto also claimed that he has to be careful for every Boruto scene including his interactions with other characters.
Also, I am careful when depicting Boruto interacting with other characters, as they often tend to affect my style.
The illustrator explained that sometimes his design of Boruto becomes more childish or overgrown depending on the character he is talking with. This fluctuation becomes a problem, which he tries to eliminate.
How Mikio Ikemoto Determines the Character Designs for Boruto
Ikemoto admitted that for each character, their role and personality are decided first. He also creates a rough draft based on his personal impression of the character. The next step is to check the pre-existing characters of both the Naruto and Boruto series so that the design of the new character doesn’t interfere or overlap with any old one.
The illustrator claimed that his designs were mostly created from his first impressions. Even when he was an assistant for the Naruto series, Masashi Kishimoto requested him to create some character designs so he has the training and experience that is needed to create new characters in the type of style that Kishimoto wants.
I always try to avoid drawing something too original by closely aligning my style with the original Naruto and Boruto. Mr. Kishimoto often tells me to make “eyes and mouths large,” as smaller eyes and mouths leave characters spiritless.
It looks like Ikemoto is under strict supervision to create Boruto devoid of any personal impression since the character is highly supervised by Masashi Kishimoto.
You can read Naruto and Boruto on Viz Media and watch the anime on Crunchyroll.
