So you’re really good at drawing, especially drawing characters, and would like to pursue a career in film, television or the gaming industry, but there is one problem… you do not know the basics of character concept art and hence you will not know how to go about in the industry.
Well then, this article is perfect for you, as you read on you will acquire some tips towards fine tuning your skills and eventually being able to achieve your dream job.
A character concept designer creates a personality and breathes life into it by generating an ideal scenario that the character can relate to it. They utilize many tools, traditional and digital while working on their projects. The artists’ work closely along with the art director and fellow concept artists so that they have the same idea and understand the concept in order for them to work in sync. Knowledge of Photoshop and other software help with digital art.
When it comes to character concept art, designers usually like to work on digital mediums rather than traditional mediums as the margin of error is less and the tools required are achieved through affordable costs.
The Job Responsibilities of aCharacter Concept Artist Include:
- Reading the provided script and listening to ideas through which he/she can build his/her character and concept.
- Brainstorming, conducting detailed research, and gathering enough information while designing a new character
- Completing a storyboard and sketches which include the characters along with the concept.
- Attending meetings with clients and being clear about their needs and implementing their ideas accordingly.
Below are some tips that will help you start your journey as a character concept artist:
- Mastering the Fundamentals:
Before you think of detailed and complex drawings you must learn to understand the basics, that is, you need to learn to control your hand while drawing before you can start improving your skills.
- Getting to know your audience:
At end of the day, the approval by the art director or the model by your illustrator does not matter if your target audience does not like your work. So, you need to research what your target audience would like to see the end result. Find out what they like and dislike, whether they are old or young, etc.
- Telling a story:
When a character is visually appealing it peaks the interest of the audience, they will want to know more about the character and what ideas went behind the concept. The artist will need to include details that have a connection with the concept and story behind the character’s development. It may be the clothes they wear or their expressions or the way their hair is styled. All these elements put together to explain the character’s story and personality. Your characters will be a hit if you familiarize yourself with their story and the concept on the whole.
Conclusion:
Listed above are some of the basic topics you will need to know before you embark on the journey of character concept art. To be successful in this field you need to remember as an artist it is very important to love what you do and not what you make, be patient, seek out feedback, take that criticism with humility and always have an open mind about learning new material every time. So, go ahead and begin your voyage as a character concept artist and be rest assured that you will never be bored!