Content area
Full text
Abstract
Characters are core components of any work, and they serve as psychological projections for viewers or readers and convoys of plots and core elements. With the rise of network publishing and Internet communications, the animation, comics, and games (ACG) industry has exploded. To create distinction in an industry with highly similar works, artists/designers focus more on character model design. In this study, we adopted product design theory to examine the processes of designing character models and develop a unique character design method (CDM) . First, we examined different character model designs and analyzed the differences between the commercial animation character modeling approaches prevalent in Europe, the United States, and Japan. We then tested several character modeling constructs and administered a questionnaire survey to collect data for statistical analysis. The findings indicated that the proposed CDM greatly improved the learning interest of inexperienced character designer.
Keywords: character design, character modeling, animation
Introduction
With the rise of network publishing and Internet communications, the development of animation and comics is becoming increasingly intertwined. Character modeling is an integral step in the conceptualization of storyline and style. The identity, status, background, and underlying personality of characters that fit the storyline can be established through character modeling and setting character features. Well-designed characters can define the outcome of the animation/comic. Therefore, character models must be unique and visually impactful to impress viewers/readers and allow the animation/comic to stand out from other similar works in the market. Characters are differentiated by facial details, apparel and accessories, and hairstyles and hair accessories. In this study, we examined the character modeling and design processes of domestic and foreign commercial animations/comics. We then combined our findings with product design theory to develop a unique character design method (CDM) to help beginner artists quickly meet design requirements
In this study, we conducted a literature review and examined the current character design processes for commercial animation/comic works created in Europe, the United States, and Japan. We then extracted the key steps of character design and applied the procedures and methodologies of product design to develop a unique CDM. The CDM serves as a reference for beginner designers to achieve their design goals. The objectives of this study are as follows: (1) to examine existing...