Red Character Design is a project close to my heart, born during my application process to the Minneapolis College of Art and Design back in 2020. After getting accepted, I dove deeper into character creation. Around the same time, I found myself drawn to Russian culture, especially its underground rap scene. I always grew up around Eastern European friends and I became fascinated with cultures from that area. I was fascinated by the energy and creativity coming out of Moscow. So, on a whim one Tuesday, I decided to learn Russian. I set a rule for myself: I’d only create art of my character if it was in Russian, using her as a tool to improve my language skills. Red, as I named her, is a mix of the SKAM rap scene from Moscow and the Zef culture of South Africa. She is also an exploration of the use of narcotics and the grim reality it but how in the moment no one notices how horrible the situation really is.
DESIGN PROCESS
When designing Red, my goal was to create a character with animation in mind. Through my own studies and interactions with animators, I learned the importance of crafting characters suitable for animation if I ever choose to take it that route. I aimed to make Red dynamic and expressive, capable of conveying a range of emotions effectively. To ensure she stood out, I opted for a bold and vibrant yellow palette, reflecting her assertive personality. Her fashion choices were carefully selected to align with her character traits an assertive and charismatic person. By paying attention to detail and conducting emotion studies, I ensured that Red exuded a sense of liveliness.
The mood board for Red draws inspiration from Russian culture, particularly the vibrant and richly textured world of babushka fashion and the stark realities of living in a slum. Growing up surrounded by people whose families witnessed the fall of the USSR, I was captivated by their stories of communal apartments and the warmth of their memories, despite the challenges they faced in the 1980s. Through Red's design, I aimed to capture not just a character, but a cultural tapestry of a reflection of Eastern European solidarity. That is... when they are not arguing which country is the best.
In the sketches of Red, my primary aim was to further flesh out her personality. I focused on making her dynamic, ensuring that her body language not only reflected her personality but also conveyed her vibe and the type of person she is. Each sketch was an exploration of her character, allowing me to refine her appearance and mannerisms. Additionally, I experimented with various clothing ideas, creating a range of outfits that I could interchangeably dress her in. This process of sketching not only helped me develop Red's character but also enabled me to create a versatile wardrobe that complements her persona.
CHARACTER BUILDING
In diving into Red's character, I really wanted to explore the darker/realer side of life. The illustrations depict her in various scenes, from casual moments like smoking at a bus stop in traditional babushka attire to wild parties with her sister and friends, where things can get pretty intense. Red's journey from a gay trouble maker village girl seeking freedom in Moscow to getting tangled up in the drug scene mirrors real struggles faced by many. Drawing inspiration from true stories, I aimed to shine a light on the experiences of minorities in Russia, showing the harsh realities of life in trap houses and the numbing effects of substance abuse. It's a tough universal experience that hits close to home for many.
Red Character Design has been an exploration of character depth and authenticity. While Red's future remains open, my commitment to crafting compelling characters remains strong. I look forward to future creative endeavors in character design and storytelling.
PROGRAMS USED
