Graphics Reference
In-Depth Information
French Mafi a as large black shapes
Mme. Souza in Belleville, Courtesy of Sylvain Chomet,
Triplets of Belleville
When you begin a character, begin by thinking in shapes. Style and details can come later.
What are the basic shapes that communicate the essence of your character?
Personality and Function
After you have identifi ed the basic shapes for your character, it will need to be pushed
further. Why? Whether you're designing a gopher, a computer animator, a grandmother,
or a robot—there are hundreds of similar designs out there. Your characters will be generic
unless you express their unique personality and style.
The best character designs have personality. They pop off the page. They are alive! You'd
love to meet them. So how do you do that? Achieving personality means combining two
things: originality and function.
