Manga Artist - Sanna U


Sanna Image 1 Could you give some background information + an explanation about your profession and art style?

I worked as a young professional Mangaka in Japan until moved to the UK. Now I settled down here, I want to involve in Manga scene again, but this time in the UK! Please see more detailed information at my website, sannau.com My art style is definitely Japanese Manga.

How long have you been involved in art (history, drawing, college etc..)
As long as I remember! I was a happy kid with pencils and papers. Before (and during) becoming a professional, I made many Doujinshis (self-made comic books) too. I'm totally a self-taught artist though, like most of Japanese Mangaka.

What got you involved with art?
I was born with it!

Sanna Image 2 What Letraset products do you use?
Now mainly Tria markers.

When did you first start using Letraset products?
I still remember when my father bought me some screen tones I asked for. I was 7 or 8 years old!

What do you like about Letraset products (specific to your art style)?
Qualities!

Why do you choose Letraset?
I initially started to use Tria markers because I couldn't get Japanese markers in the UK. I was a Japanese (literally!) Mangaka and didn't know Tria markers. But now I know there are firm Japanese fans as well!

Sanna's Tips

What tips could you offer aspiring/experienced artists for getting the most out of their Letraset products?
There are 2 ways to draw with art markers. Put a next colour on the first colour while its wet or dry. For example, when colouring skin, put shade on while a base colour is wet, youll get blending effect (most of my pictures). If the base colour is dry, you will get clear effect like Anime (my picture1).

Are there any ways to use our products that are not immediately obvious (quirky)?
The quality of Tria markers is incredible, so you dont get streams usually like cheap markers, but try applying again and again if you are worried.

Are there any last tips you could offer for getting the most out of Letraset products (e.g. how to create certain effects with markers etc)?
Have at least 3 shades of each colour, so you can get gradation effects. Use a lighter colour to blend in two shades. I usually use Blender as an eraser. Tria markers are very good to use with other media. I like using them with coloured pencils to enjoy different texture, and white ink for finishing.