Creative Character Design 2e (2^nd Ed.)

Create compelling, original characters using archetypes and design elements such as shadows and line with the tips and techniques found in this image-packed book. Bryan Tillman bridges the gap between the technique of drawing characters and the theory of good character design by using case studies, examples of professional art, and literary and pop culture references to teach you how to develop a character, not just draw one. The book also features Character Model Sheets that will guide you through the creation of new and unique characters. Finally, Bryan will break down established character archetypes to show you why and how the different aspects of good character design work.

Key Features:

• Learn what makes a character unique and powerful through tools like character model sheets and case studies from established artists.
• Develop your abolity to use story and archetypes to create compelling new characters.
• See artwork by professional artists as examples of the techniques shown in the book
• Bridges the gap between the technique of drawing characters and the theory of good character design in a practical, hands-on way - learn how to use story and archetypes to develop compelling, new characters
• Based on a standing-room only presentation at Comic-Con 2009 in San Diego.

Chapter 1 What Makes for Good Character Design?

Chapter 2 Why Archetypes Are Important

Chapter 3 The Most Important Part of Character Design

Chapter 4 Can You Still Be Original Anymore?

Chapter 5 Shapes and Silhouettes

Chapter 6 Reference, Reference, and Reference--Oh My!

Chapter 7 Aesthetics--Just What You've Been Waiting For

Chapter 8 The WOW Factor.

Bryan "Kaiser" Tillman was born into a military family in 1980. He was able to travel the world at a young age due to his father being in the military. Bryan lived most of his young life in Germany with his family. There he learned German and how much German blood flowed through his veins. Once Bryan was 18 he left for the United States in order to pursue a degree in Sequential Art at the Savannah College of Art and Design. He went on to graduate both undergrad and grad school with honors. After graduating Bryan worked as a concept designer for an online video game company and did storyboards for an ad agency. Shortly after that Bryan moved to Alexandria Virginia, where he started teaching at the Art Institute of Washington. After two years of being a full time professor for animation and game art, Bryan became academic director for animation, game art, visual effects and motion graphics and visual game programming. He is currently an Assistant Professor for Graphic Design at Norfolk State University. In addition Bryan also owns and operates a production studio named Kaiser Studio Productions that creates comics, toys and table top games.