Hi guys.
I began work on a character design which I will later model and texture. Now I am not a good concept artist but I put in some time sketching out this character I had in mind anyway. I’ve had this guy in my head for months now and it feels good to finally have him out on paper.
The pen sketch on the bottom right corner is another variation of the character that I doodled, while I focused on the head of the character.
I realize how I have lost my flow since I stopped attending figure drawing sessions over a year and a half ago- my lines are very hesitant, but I have silently made a promise to myself that I will start picking up the pencil every day until I regain my confidence.
I will colorize the concept sketches with my wacom once I am satisfied with the drafts and will post the progress shortly.
I was reading a lesson by Tom Bancroft (Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, etc.) on developing solid character designs. He emphasizes four main principles: Personality, Goals, Shapes, and Variance.
Personality means, giving my character a personality. In this case I write a short summary of my character. I wouldn’t say: “My character is a grumpy waiter.” I would have to give him a story, he is an Italian immigrant who came to New York in the 80’s and couldn’t imagine himself anywhere else. He is a stickler for detail and proper protocol, any disturbance or error is enough for him to lose his temper. Though he can be very demanding of his staff, he is very accommodating with his customers and makes their dining experience his utmost priority. He always opens the restaurant and closes the restaurant. He is a tough but unintentionally funny guy.
Goals define the who, what, why, how of my character. Is this for a feature? A short? Is this a personal project or for a client? Is it intended for comedy, drama, mystery or action? Is he for kids or adults? Is he the protagonist or is he a side-character? Do I want a certain style for my character? Cartoony or realistic?
Shapes. I need to be able to break my character down into basic shapes. Is he composed of ovals? Squares? Triangles? I am still working on my character and will sketch out some concepts based on shapes.
Variance. Tom states that I need to practice discipline and refine my character. I need to draw several variations until I have an assortment of my Maitre d’ character.
Below, I practiced drawing character designs based off of simple shapes. I will continue to practice variations of character shapes until I make it a habit.
