1. Know the Devil’s Look and Feel
To accurately portray the Devil, you must first get a feel for his look and feel. He’s typically depicted as a red, horned figure with pointed ears, talon-like fingernails, and horns sprouting from his head. He frequently has a vampire-like complexion and can appear in a variety of guises. To get a better idea of the Devil’s overall appearance and stature, research artwork featuring him and even read stories set in a hellish universe.
2. Incorporate Traditional Symbols
The Devil has been around for centuries and there are a handful of symbols associated with him. Fire, horns, and a pitchfork are all visual cues used to identify this symbolic figure. These elements can be incorporated subtly or plainly, depending on the intended style of your artwork.
3. Capture the Devil’s Emotion
The Devil is generally associated with feelings of anger, power, and malevolence. His eyes will often glow, or have an intense stare and his pupils will often be narrowed. His posture is usually threatening and he’s usually seen with a menacing grin. Play with capturing the Devil’s emotions and facial expressions to really bring him to life in your artwork.
4. Embrace the Darkness
The Devil evokes a lot of darkness, both literally and metaphorically, so don’t be afraid to embrace this element when drawing the Devil. His world is shrouded in shadows and the dimness of night. Draw him in a shaded abyss, a realm of perpetual darkness and unknown. High contrast light and dark areas help bring the image of the Devil alive.
5. Pay Attention to Detail
The Devil is a powerful, compelling figure, and his smallest details can make a huge difference. Paying attention to tiny features can be the difference between a cartoon character and a haunting legend. Strive to master the devil’s details, or have an artist or peer mentor look at your work and point out what might improve the picture.
6. Have Fun with it
There’s no telling where your artistic adventures will take you. Allow yourself to remove the pressure of creating a “perfect” image by incorporating offbeat influences and unexpected effects. The Devil is versatile, mischievous and ever-changing, so have fun with it!
7. Practice
Finally, be sure to practice drawing the Devil. It’s not a skill you’ll master overnight, and the best way to become a better artist is to practice. Draw the Devil over and over again, refine your skills and in no time at all you’ll be able to capture his character perfectly.
