webkartoin

Webkartoin is a term that emerged in early internet culture, specifically within online communities dedicated to digital art and image sharing. It is generally understood as a portmanteau of "web" and "kartun," the Malay word for cartoon. The term was used to describe digital drawings or illustrations that were inspired by or resembled traditional cartoon styles, often created and shared online.

These webkartoin pieces typically featured simplified character designs, expressive lines, and vibrant colors, all hallmarks of classic animation and comic art. The "web" aspect implied that these artworks were primarily created using digital tools and distributed via the internet, distinguishing them from physical drawings or traditional animation cels. Early adopters of the term often found and shared these creations on forums, early social media platforms, and dedicated art websites.

The exact origins of the term "webkartoin" are difficult to pinpoint, as is common with much internet slang. However, its usage peaked in the late 1990s and early 2000s, a period when digital art was rapidly growing in accessibility and popularity. While the term itself may not be widely used today, the aesthetic and spirit of webkartoin continue to influence contemporary digital illustration and online comic art. It represents an early stage of digital artistic expression that embraced cartoonish aesthetics for online audiences.