Character Design for Science-Fiction

Re-imagining the Future through Subculture

Re-imagining the future through subcultures, graffiti, and spirituality was the challenge of this personal creative project. By analyzing cinema classics such as “Blade Runner”, I studied the fashion design to understand how it could be both believable and timeless. I learned that the key to believable Science Fiction design, is to avoid being too outlandish but to still stay true to the science fiction genre.

The Idea Development

Persona profiles and mind maps.

To explore a deeper Science-Fiction narrative design, I often ask myself, "Where is the emotion?" It's about having empathy for who the character is.

I use persona profiles and mind maps to generate ideas and tie them together. For example, if I'm designing a character who is introverted, I might give them a hoodie and a mask. This would not only fit the environment they live in, but it would also be a nod to their personality.

The Visual Direction

To create believable narratives, I use mood boards, sketches, and any other means necessary to research and explore ideas. I balance the workings of the inner mind with what we already find in our world to avoid being too creative and wild, while still maintaining the believability and relatability of my work.

Mood boards and brainstorming through sketches.

When faced with a new problem, I see it as an opportunity to explore new creative avenues. In this case, I had the opportunity to use my 3D concept art skills to create a kit of assets that could be used to aid 3D production.

This project was unlike anything I had ever done before, requiring me to research ZBrush to solve the hard surface elements of the design. I went from test to test, collecting mistakes and wrong answers, and then searching for different contexts where they could become the right answer.

The Results:

Software used: Zbrush, Marvelous Designer, Photoshop, Keyshot.

By the end of this Science-Fiction Concept Art project, I achieved a variety of solutions for concept art and design challenges, including:

  • Fully functional mechanical designs blocked in 3D for engineering purposes.

  • Fashion design in Marvelous Designer with auto-generated UV maps, reducing production time and manual work for the 3D department.

  • Sci-fi graphics and decals that can be used for game projects and branding, as well as a style guide for future character designs.

  • Efficient 3D bases for marketing illustrations and concept art, speeding up 3D production later on.

  • Newfound fundamentals of realistic character design, using elements from real people with the same vibe, social culture, and energy.

This knowledge can be applied to any project, making me a versatile and valuable asset to any team.

Looking to start a project?

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