What is Pixiv?
pixiv is an online art community and social networking service launched in September 2007 by pixiv Inc. Based in Japan, the site allows users to upload, view, and share artwork with other users. As of 2018, pixiv had over 15 million members with over 60 million illustrations and artworks uploaded to the service.
pixiv is especially popular among fans and creators of anime, manga, and video games. Users can create personal galleries of their drawings and illustrations in a variety of categories and art styles. Other users can view, comment on, favorite, and follow specific artists that they like. It also includes social networking features to connect fans with creators and fellow users.
Key features of pixiv include:
- Image hosting for artworks and illustrations
- Profiles and galleries to share and promote artists' portfolios
- User commenting and feedback mechanisms
- Advanced search and discovery capabilities by illustration type, category, tags, and more
- In-built art contest capabilities and rankings for popular submissions
- Integration with creative software, tablets, and other drawing tools to facilitate uploads
- Available on mobile, PC, and in multiple languages (primarily Japanese and English)
Overall, pixiv aims to allow anyone to upload and share their illustrations; connect through common interests in art, manga, and more; foster online art communities and fandoms; and enable budding artists to publish portfolios. With its vast userbase in Japan and other art enthusiasts globally, pixiv has emerged as a leading online destination for participating in art and anime/manga fandoms.
DeviantArt, PENUP, Behance, ArtStation, Dribbble, MangaDojo, PaintBerri, ArtStack, Worka, Creary, Wysp, PaigeeWorld, PanelJam , Crevado, Doodle Addicts, Carbonmade, Fabrik, Lensguild, fotocommunity, Zerply, Psddd, Portfolio Websites, Freelancer Club, Creative Portfolio, BlabJam are some alternatives to Pixiv.