Toonskleuren

Toonskleuren is a Dutch term that translates to "cartoon coloring" or "coloring like a cartoon." It refers to a stylistic approach to coloring that mimics the appearance of traditional animation or comic books. This style is characterized by flat areas of solid color, distinct outlines, and a general lack of realistic shading or gradients.

The aesthetic of toonskleuren is often achieved by using bold, saturated hues that do not blend or transition smoothly. Instead, colors are applied in distinct segments, clearly separated by dark lines. These lines are a crucial element, defining the shapes and separating different color areas, much like the ink lines in a comic panel or the cel outlines in hand-drawn animation. Subtle variations in color intensity or value are typically absent, contributing to the graphic and stylized look.

This coloring method is frequently employed in digital art, illustration, and graphic design to evoke a sense of playfulness, simplicity, or retro charm. It can be used for character design, backgrounds, or entire scenes. The emphasis is on clear visual communication and a strong, graphic impact rather than photorealism. While originating from traditional animation and comic art, toonskleuren has found a broad application in contemporary visual media.