Dragon Ball fans just got a burst of nostalgia as the series’ official website dropped a nearly 40-year-old gem: original 1986 artwork of Bulma, the franchise’s iconic heroine. The throwback piece, shared as part of the Toriyama Archives, gives fans a rare peek into Akira Toriyama’s creative process during Dragon Ball’s early days. The artwork, pulled from Weekly Shonen Jump #20, features a younger Bulma grinning confidently while holding a submachine gun, with four vertical panels framing her in a classic manga style.
Why This Bulma Artwork Is a Big Deal
The sketch isn’t just a blast from the past – it’s a masterclass in Toriyama’s artistry. Despite using only two colors, the piece showcases intricate details, like the camouflage pattern on Bulma’s bikini top and the lifelike texture of her hair and weapon. A caption on the site praises Toriyama’s skill, calling it a “perfect example of two-tone shading” that proves less can be more. The timing is also noteworthy: the artwork highlights Bulma’s reunion with Goku during their Dragon Ball hunt, a storyline that cemented her role as the series’ brains and heart.
Bulma’s Legacy: More Than Just a Sidekick
Let’s be real – without Bulma, Dragon Ball wouldn’t be the same. As Goku’s first friend and the genius behind Capsule Corp tech, she’s the glue holding the Z-Fighters together. But her impact goes beyond gadgets and comic relief. Her relationship with Vegeta reshaped the series, leading to fan-favorite characters like Trunks and Bulla. This artwork reminds us why she’s stood the test of time: equal parts brains, bravery, and sass.
Toriyama Archives Keep His Spirit Alive
Since Toriyama’s passing in 2024, the Toriyama Archives have become a bittersweet treasure for fans. These releases aren’t just about nostalgia – they’re a tribute to the creator’s unmatched influence. With Dragon Ball DAIMA marking his final anime project and the manga’s Super Hero arc being his last contribution, the franchise faces a new era. Upcoming chapters (starting with #105) will reportedly be led by Toyotarou, Toriyama’s longtime collaborator, but fans will always wonder: What would Toriyama do?
The Bottom Line
This 1986 artwork isn’t just a cool relic – it’s a reminder of how Toriyama turned simple sketches into a global phenomenon. For longtime fans, it’s a chance to revisit Bulma’s roots. For newcomers, it’s proof that great characters never fade. As Dragon Ball charts its future, pieces like this keep the spirit of its legendary creator alive, one submachine gun-toting genius at a time.
