E40: Character Development: Avoid The Concept Art Trap!

Author: Tim Mcburnie
Published: Thu 21 Nov 2024
Episode Link: https://share.transistor.fm/s/43effb6a

Check out my Free Brainstorming Workshop: https://mightyartisan.com/worldbuilding Learn to silence your inner critic. Ignite creative ideas. And watch a live demo of these techniques in action.

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This is The Fortieth Episode of the Visual Scholar Podcast - With Tim Mcburnie.

Let's talk about the dangers of being one dimensional in your character design!

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In this video, I delve into the complexities of character design, exploring the contrast between visual representation and character development through actions. As artists, we're often taught to make characters look like who they are, emphasizing clear, exaggerated visual cues. However, in writing, it's the actions a character takes that truly define them, sometimes conflicting with their outward appearance.

I discuss how these differing approaches can clash and how understanding both the external and internal aspects of character can lead to more nuanced and compelling designs. By examining examples like Tyrion Lannister from "Game of Thrones," Darth Vader from "Star Wars," and Long John Silver from "Treasure Island," I highlight how characters with contrasting appearances and motivations captivate audiences.

Whether you're designing your own characters or aiming to deepen your storytelling, this video offers insights into balancing clarity with complexity. Join me as I unpack these concepts to help you create characters that resonate on a deeper level with your audience.

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CHAPTERS:

00:00 Intro

01:39 Welcome

02:04 Are There Problems With General Character Design Advice?

06:04 Complexity and Duality of Great Characters

14:50 The Benefit of Being Basic...

20:23 The Dangers of Being a Cog in The Machine...

24:00 The Analytical Takeaway

27:05 The Simple Takeaway

27:19 The Practical Takeaway

31:20 The Philosophical Takeaway

35:11 Out... Plus The Mona Lisa

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The Visual Scholar Podcast is designed to help you demystify the world of Art, Productivity, and Creativity. So you can get better faster, and enjoy your Art Journey.

We discuss Drawing, Painting, Illustration and Entertainment Design. Along with Productivity and Career Advice.

You Can Find The Visual Scholar Podcast In These Places:

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-visual-scholar/id1678505411

Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/6VbdwbiZqy8nqb90ruKQCX?si=21b9c1d02c85419f

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MightyArtisan

Show Homepage:

https://visualscholar.mightyartisan.com

Where To Find More About Tim Mcburnie:

Learn Drawing and Illustration at The Drawing Codex:

www.thedrawingcodex.com

Take Your Career and Productivity To The Next Level:

www.mightyartisan.com