Illustration & Visual Narrative - Weekly Exercises / Task 1&2

24/4/2024 - 15/5/2024 (Week 1 - Week 4)
Shawn Wong Kai Hen / 0375372
Illustration & Visual Narrative / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Task 1: Exercise 1

LECTURES

Week 1

During the initial week of the academic term, there was an absence of scheduled classes and no prior notification was received. Despite arriving early at the school premises, it became evident that no classes were scheduled for the day. Fortunately, I was informed of this by fellow classmates who were present, allowing me to adjust my plans accordingly. This unexpected situation provided an opportunity to engage with peers and gain insights into forthcoming study topics, thereby optimizing the time spent on academic pursuits.

Week 2

Fig. 1.1 Vormator Elements

Fig. 1.2 Bezier Game Completed

During the second week of the term, a public holiday fell on Wednesday, resulting in the cancellation of classes. However, Mr. Hafiz, our instructor, facilitated a make-up session on Thursday morning, which I attended as scheduled. Regrettably, during the second week, an unforeseen electrical outage occurred in the computer labs, necessitating us to endure the class under uncomfortably warm conditions. Despite this challenge, Mr. Hafiz delivered a session on the utilization of the pen tool, wherein he encouraged us to employ minimal nodes in completing assigned tasks. Despite the adverse circumstances, the class remained engaging and enjoyable, fostering a conducive learning environment.

Week 4

Fig. 1.3 Pera Chiaroscuro - Practical, Week 4 (15/5/2024)

During week 4, we explored various techniques for manipulating shapes, specifically cutting, drawing, and merging. After reviewing our latest Vormator challenge submissions, Mr. Hafiz introduced us to some fundamental aspects of Adobe Illustrator during our practical session. Our focus was on utilizing the Pen tool, Knife tool, Pathfinder, and conducting color studies to create a chiaroscuro pear. Mr. Hafiz emphasized that light and shadow play a crucial role in adding depth to artwork. He also stressed the importance of imagination when tracing the chiaroscuro pear, highlighting how creative vision enhances the effectiveness of these techniques in digital illustration.

Fig. 1.4 Pera Chiaroscuro - Skeleton, Week 4 Practical (15/5/2024)

Mr. Hafiz instructed us to apply the techniques independently. Uncertain of my approach, I utilized the trace and expand function in Illustrator, based on the provided references. I then clipped the image onto the chiaroscuro pear, refining the result by adjusting extra edges, deleting anchor points, and using the knife tool to cut specific sections of the pear.

Fig. 1.5 Pera Chiaroscuro - Textured, Week 4 Practical (16/5/2024)

At this stage, I deviated from the original pear color to experiment with different hues. To enhance the design, I added pear seeds, but the pear still appeared uninteresting. Consequently, I decided to incorporate texture for added depth. Although the texture was merely experimental and did not resemble a real pear, it served as valuable practice.

  INSTRUCTIONS

Exercise 1: Vormator Challenge

Participants are challenged to create a character using only eight predefined shapes, encouraging inventive thinking and resourcefulness within set boundaries. This exercise fosters creativity, problem-solving skills, and adaptability, vital for artistic and professional growth.

For our first project, we have to design a character using only the 8 given shapes.

Fig. 2.1 Vormator Elements

VISUAL RESEARCH

Pisces Zodiac

Fig 2.2 Pisces Zodiac

Upon researching ideas for my character design, I came across a post about the zodiac, coincidentally discovering that my zodiac sign is Pisces. Recognizing the alignment of this discovery with my creative endeavor, I decided to craft my character based on the Pisces zodiac. With this concept solidified, I proceeded to conduct further research to inform and enrich my design process.

Rough Draft

Fig 2.3 Rough Draft (6.5.2024)

In the process of crafting my character based on the Pisces zodiac, I embarked on creating two fish intricately intertwined, symbolizing the essence of Pisces. Prior to assembling the final design, I meticulously considered how to construct each fish using geometric shapes. While the overall design presented manageable challenges, the intricacy of the body scales proved to be particularly time-consuming. Employing numerous drop shapes, I meticulously fashioned the scales to achieve the desired effect, investing considerable effort in ensuring their intricate detailing and lifelike appearance.

Progress

Character design

Fig 2.4 Sketching Draft (8.5.2024)

To initiate the creation process, I commenced sketching the layout of the fish, drawing inspiration from my references. Initially, I intended to design a single fish; however, upon completing the first draft, I perceived a lack of balance and visual cohesion. Subsequently, I opted to duplicate the initial fish, applying distinct colors and designs to each, thereby enhancing the overall composition. Additionally, I strategically positioned the eight predefined geometric shapes adjacent to my artboard, facilitating easier access for copying and pasting during the design phase. This organizational approach streamlined my workflow, enabling seamless integration of shapes into the evolving artwork.

Fig 2.5 First Coloring (9.5.2024)

In the initial phase of my design process, I prioritized adding color to the intricate body scales, recognizing them as the most challenging aspect of the project. My original intention was to incorporate gradients to achieve a nuanced effect. However, realizing the time-intensive nature of this approach, I opted for a layered technique instead. This method involved meticulously building up layers to create a sense of depth and texture, ultimately yielding a visually compelling result reminiscent of overlapping scales.

Fig 2.6 Second Coloring (9.5.2024)

Continuing with the design process, I focused on refining the head portion of the fish, maintaining consistency by utilizing the same color palette as the body. This approach ensures visual cohesion throughout the character, harmonizing the elements and reinforcing the overall aesthetic integrity of the design.

Fig 2.7 Third Coloring (9.5.2024)

In the final stage of my design endeavor, I dedicated attention to perfecting the fin component of the fish. Initially, I employed standard colors; however, upon review, I found the outcome lacking. Subsequently, I experimented with gradient colors, resulting in a markedly improved and aesthetically pleasing result. This strategic adjustment elevated the overall visual appeal of the character, aligning with my standards of excellence in design execution.

Fig 2.8 Second Fish (9.5.2024)

Following the refinement of the first fish, I made the decision to duplicate and mirror the layout to enhance overall visual balance and appeal. Additionally, I opted to introduce a distinct color scheme for the second fish, enriching the composition with complementary hues while maintaining visual harmony. This strategic adjustment not only improved the overall layout but also added depth and interest to the character design, resulting in a more captivating and dynamic portrayal of the Pisces zodiac.

Final Outcomes

Fig 2.9 Final outcomes Outlines in JPEG (9.5.2024)

Fig 3.0 Final outcomes in JPEG (9.5.2024)

Fig 3.1 Final outcomes Submit format in JPEG (9.5.2024)

Fig 3.2 Final outcomes in PDF (9.5.2024)

Exercise 2: Pokémon Card

In this part, we are required to use and combining our technical skill in Adobe Illustrator with our understanding of visual narrative to create a unique Pokémon Card using our own previous Vormator character. This task is split into two parts which is Vormator Character Creation and Pokémon Card Composition.

Fig 4.1 Work Process of the Background

In the attached image, my progress is shown from line drawing to a fully colored piece. The line drawing was essential for separating the foreground, midground, and background, as required by Mr. Hafiz. Inspired by aquatic and undersea scenes, I focused on creating a vibrant ocean environment for my fish creature. After refining the lines, I completed the coloring, bringing the underwater scene to life.

Fig 4.2 Final background with monster

Fig 4.3 Final Pokémon Card

For my monster I named it Aqualfare, combines "aqua" (water) with "flare" (a burst of light), a water type Pokémon with 369 HP. Aquaflare is marked as an Ancient Pokémon. It is standing at 98cm and 23 Ibs. The card is belongs to the water series and is numbered NO.069 denoting its rarity with a star symbol.

The card artworks portrays Aquaflare as a fire and water mix type. Their bodies are covered with beautiful, thick, reflective fish scales, and they also have long, dreamy-colored fins. Aquaflare abilities and attacks add strategic depth to gameplay, Aqua Illusion, manipulates water to create shimmering illusions, reducing opponents' accuracy and making it harder to target the real Pokémon. This attacks deals 130+ damage and gains an additional 30 points against physical type Pokémon.

In terms pf gameplay mechanics, Aquaflare has a weakness to water type attacks (x2) and resistance to physical type attacks (-30) with retreat cost of three colorless engry. The flavor text, "Aquaflare's shimmering scales create illusions, leaving opponents bewildered. Its grace and dazzling displays make it a marvel of the water." This flavor text highlights Aquaflare's key characteristics: its ability to create shimmering illusions with its scales, its effect on opponents (bewilderment), and its graceful, dazzling presence in the water.

FEEDBACK

Week 4 - Exercise 1

Your progress on the fish illustration is impressive, and you've completed the task promptly. Excellent work!

REFLECTION

This exercise has been both engaging and relaxing, offering a fascinating glimpse into the diverse approaches to character design. Observing the entire process, from initial shaping to the final product and color theory, has been enlightening. I’ve gained insights into the daily routines of illustrators and acquired some of their techniques. The class emphasizes intuition over overthinking, allowing creativity to flow naturally. Additionally, the instructor is very approachable and supportive, enhancing the learning experience. I look forward to further improving my skills in this subject.

Shawn Wong Kai Hen [ 0375372 ]

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