Once again, I found myself diving into the world of digital art. It’s something I enjoy deeply—bringing characters to life in my style. This time, I’ve created fan art of a character who’s as colourful and cheerful as a rainbow: Rainbow Ruby. She’s the star of a charming animated series designed for children, but honestly, even adults like me can appreciate the joy and creativity she brings. Let me tell you all about her, my process, and why this piece holds a special place in my heart.
I stumbled upon Rainbow Ruby a while back while looking for wholesome cartoons. The show was captivating from the first moment. It revolves around Ruby, a lively and resourceful young girl with a magical suitcase called the Rainbow Roller. Ruby can transform into all sorts of professions to help her toy friends in Rainbow Village. I loved the show immediately, and, truth be told, I became a quiet fan too. There’s something so endearing about Ruby’s unshakeable optimism and willingness to help others.
As I brainstormed my next piece of fan art, Ruby instantly came to mind. Her character is vibrant, and the show’s setting is so fantastical that it felt like the perfect fit for my creative style. I decided to depict her in one of her classic cheerful poses—waving with a radiant smile that reflects her kind-hearted personality. I wanted my art to capture not only her appearance but also the energy and warmth she exudes. Ruby's character truly resonated with me, and I wanted to convey that through my artwork.
I started by sketching out Ruby, paying close attention to the details of her appearance. Her outfit is iconic: a pink jacket adorned with a heart-shaped badge and colourful buttons that mirror her rainbow theme. Beneath the jacket, she wears a rainbow ruffle skirt and matching rainbow-striped shorts, which add a playful touch to her look. Her light blue boots, with their whimsical, cloud-like trim, complete the outfit perfectly. Her red hair, tied up in a high ponytail, includes a streak of rainbow colours that flows like a magical ribbon, making her stand out even more.
Her bright teal eyes are filled with curiosity and kindness, and I made sure to emphasise them in my piece. Those eyes seem to invite you into her world, where every problem can be solved with creativity and teamwork. The background I chose—a dreamy, pastel-coloured village—was the Rainbow Village itself, the magical place where Ruby’s adventures unfold. I added a scattering of glitter to the illustration, capturing the sparkle that seems to follow Ruby wherever she goes.
For those unfamiliar, Rainbow Village is a whimsical world brought to life by Ruby’s toys. It’s a place filled with fun, laughter, and a touch of magic. What makes it even more fascinating is how it’s connected to Ruby’s real life. Whenever Ruby is needed, a special red jewel on Choco, her teddy bear, begins to glow and play a melody. This signal tells Ruby that something is amiss in Rainbow Village. She wastes no time, grabbing Choco and heading to her room, where the magical transportation to Rainbow Village begins.
Once in Rainbow Village, Ruby is greeted by Ling Ling, the stuffed elephant who serves as the village’s mayor. Ling Ling often explains the latest problems the villagers are facing. These issues range from organising a celebration to fixing a mechanical mishap. Ruby listens carefully and, with the help of her Rainbow Roller, transforms herself into the perfect professional to tackle the problem. Ruby is known throughout Rainbow Village for her problem-solving skills and quick thinking. With Choco by her side, she is always ready to help her friends and save the day.
This is one of the most delightful aspects of the show—and one of the reasons I admire Ruby as a character. She can become a chef, a doctor, a ranger, a dance instructor—you name it! The Rainbow Roller provides her with the appropriate outfit and tools for the job, teaching kids not only about various professions but also the importance of resourcefulness and adaptability. Ruby's versatility and ability to adapt to any situation make her a great role model for young viewers. Through her various roles, she teaches important life lessons about problem-solving and being prepared for anything.
Creating this piece was both challenging and rewarding. Ruby’s design is intricate, and capturing her essence requires a lot of attention to detail. I started with the basic outline, ensuring her pose and proportions were just right. Then came the colours—a vibrant palette of pinks, blues, and rainbows. I layered the colours carefully to achieve a soft yet lively look, making sure each element of her outfit popped. The rainbow streak in her hair was particularly fun to work on, as it added a dynamic touch to the piece.
While working on this artwork, I reflected on why Ruby’s character resonates with me and so many others. She embodies qualities we all admire: kindness, creativity, and a can-do attitude. In a world that can often feel overwhelming, Ruby reminds us that every problem has a solution, and it’s okay to ask for help along the way. She’s a role model not just for children but for anyone who values teamwork and determination. Ruby's positive attitude and ability to find solutions in difficult situations serve as an inspiration for those facing challenges in their own lives.
Looking at the finished artwork, I feel a deep sense of satisfaction. Ruby stands there, waving with her signature smile, ready for her next adventure. In many ways, she inspires me to approach my own life with the same optimism and creativity. Who knows? Maybe this piece will inspire someone else to pick up a paintbrush or watch an episode of Rainbow Ruby. Either way, I’m grateful for the opportunity to bring a little more colour into the world, just like Ruby herself.