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The evolution of the Simpson cartoon since 1987

Evolution du dessin Simpson depuis le premier épisode

Who has never laughed at the adventures of the craziest family in Springfield? For over 30 years, The Simpsons have been with us and we all have hilarious memories of the adventures of Homer, Bart, Marge and the others. But have you noticed that since 1987, the drawing of The Simpsons has changed? And do you really know why Matt Groening, the creator of the sitcom, has changed his style so much?

Behind these transformations lie unexpected reasons: technological evolution, adjustments to audience expectations... Embark with us on a journey through time, right from the couch of the Simpsons' house. We reveal how the visual style of the series has evolved since the very first episode, while remaining faithful to its unique humor!

The Evolution of The Simpsons Cartoons

When they first appeared in 1987 on The Tracey Ullman Show, the Simpsons characters were depicted in a very rudimentary way. Homer , Marge , Bart , Lisa and Maggie were drawn in a crude way, with rough lines and irregular proportions. It was clear that the series was still in the development phase... But despite these imperfections, the public was immediately won over!

1987-1989: The first seasons

In 1989, The Simpsons made their official debut with the first season of the series on the Fox network. Sensing the success coming, Matt Groening then evolved his drawings . The quality improved and the characters began to look more like those we know today.

It shows the first adjustments that brought the style of The Simpsons closer to that of today. Early fans remember the charm of that era!

Simpson family drawing in 1987

1990s: The Move to Smoother Animation

In the mid-90s, with the introduction of new animation technologies, the graphic style of The Simpsons changed radically. The lines became sharper, the characters more expressive and the movements more fluid. The colors, previously rather basic, became brighter and more contrasting.

The world of Springfield also evolved, with more detail in the settings and better integration of the characters into their environment. This period marked a turning point in the overall quality of the animation , reinforcing the visual identity of the series.

Simpsons drawing from the 90s

2000s: The era of computer-aided animation

With the arrival of the 2000s, computer-aided animation made its entrance into the production of the series. This allowed a drastic improvement in the visual quality of the Simpsons drawings . Now, the characters benefit from more realistic shadows, lights, and even textures, adding an unprecedented depth to the image.

This move to digital also allowed for greater fluidity in the characters' movements and better visual continuity from one episode to another. This modernization brought a more sophisticated look while respecting the original style of The Simpsons .

simpsons drawing in 2023

The unchanged features of the Simpson drawing

Since the launch of The Simpsons by Matt Groening, one particularity stands out: despite the artistic evolutions, certain elements remain set in stone. The Simpsons drawing has always managed to retain an unequaled charm that transcends the ages, offering a consistency admired by its fans.

Hair and Faces

For example, most of the characters in The Simpsons have exactly eight hairs. This is easily seen in drawings of Bart or his sister Lisa . This choice, far from being random, is a reflection of deliberate simplicity , aimed at making the style easy to reproduce.

Another point to note is that the Simpsons ' faces are marked by an absence of prominent lips and prominent eyes . Although their eyes have evolved slightly, becoming rounder and larger over time, they remain a symbol of Matt Groening's consistent style.

Evolution of Bart Simpson's drawing since 1987

A unique color palette

The color palette used in the series, including the characters' famous yellow hue , is also another unchanged element. This choice allows The Simpsons to stand out in the animation landscape. This bright yellow contributes to their iconic appearance and reinforces their immediate visibility.

Other details

The characters in the series, unlike the classic human representation, have only four fingers on each hand. This simple stylistic choice makes animation easier while adding a unique aspect that sets the series apart from others.

In addition, the characters' outfits, rarely changed over the seasons, bring a sense of familiarity and continuity. These elements contribute to the uniqueness of the Simpsons drawing , giving each episode a well-anchored visual identity.

drawing homer simpson evolution from 1987 to 2023

The New Era of Simpson Cartoon

Have you ever wondered how you would fit into the colorful world of The Simpsons ? Have you ever imagined joining the Simpsons' house in Springfield ?

Today, thanks to the Simpson custom portrait, you no longer have to dream it. By putting yourself in Matt Groening 's shoes, you have the opportunity to integrate your own photo into this iconic universe. Imagine yourself as a Simpson drawing , with every detail carefully crafted to reflect your personality. All this while respecting Matt Groening 's authentic style.

Personalizing your Simpson portrait is not only a unique gift idea . It is above all a way to affirm your place in the most cult series in the history of television.

Personalized portrait of a couple in Simpson drawing

For those who aspire to add an original touch to their interior decoration, the personalized Simpson painting is an original gift idea. Whether for Mother's Day , Valentine's Day or Christmas , offering a personalized Simpson gift promises to please. And for an even more personal touch, Cartoon Toi offers a multitude of gift ideas.

Whether you prefer a poster to decorate your room or a Simpson mug to brighten up your mornings, each object immerses you in the heart of Springfield . But for total immersion and a sense of belonging to this iconic universe, nothing beats a Simpson painting , enhanced by its magnificent wooden frame .

Much more than a simple personalized photo , it is an invitation to join Homer , Moe and Mr Burns in their incredible adventures. By opting for a Simpson portrait , you are not only offering an original gift , but also a timeless souvenir. Let your imagination take over and bring your unique touch by creating your own Simpson drawing !

photo of a couple before and after portrait drawing simpson

Customize your Simpson drawing

The artistic evolution of the Simpson cartoon demonstrates the genius and timeless vision of Matt Groening . As we admire the Springfield saga, why not immortalize your own face with a personalized Simpson portrait ? At Cartoon Toi , we transform your image into an iconic piece of the Simpson universe. Choose an unforgettable and memorable gift today!