For artists and authors like me, creating a character is both exciting and stressful. Well, more exciting than anything. More often than not, I create characters just for the fun of it. Doodling in class can lead to a new character. Or sometimes listening to a certain song. Even finding a name you really like and creating from it. So, for today, I’ll be talking about how to create a character and even some about my own!
Method 1 – Just Start Drawing – Sometimes when I’m bored, or watching something but still want my hands to do something, I start drawing a human form. From there, I just add things on like hair, eyes, clothes, and accessories. I try to create someone who isn’t generic. I’ll add really odd things to the character in order for it to be more unique. Don’t be afraid to get creative.
Method 2 – Music – When browsing YouTube, I may find a song I really enjoy. And it seems to be a great song to use for a character. After listening to the song multiple times, I usually just start sketching and see what happens. I recommend finding playlists or watching music videos.
Method 3 – Background – Creating a character can be frustrating, especially if you need a character for something that has a deadline (a short story or art piece). Try creating the world first. Think of the role you want your character to have (it doesn’t even need to be that specific) and build around that. Create a nation ruled by a government, create a forest or a mountain or a desert, create a nomadic tribe, create tall skyscrapers. Add new and different animals of your making. Add magic, or autonomous robots, or whatever you like. Once you have a good grasp on what the world is, create your character based on the area around it.
Method 4 – Themes and Prompts – This method seems to work well for me. Sometimes it is still hard to get the ball rolling. When that happens, I find somewhere I can get prompts and themes. These can allow you to create with a certain phrase or word. Try using that phrase to shape an entire character. It could be a visual prompt, or a characterizing prompt. There are many places where you can find prompts. Many blogs on Tumblr are dedicated to that sole purpose. I also go to artprompts.org. They have a ton of stuff there!
Method 5 – Look at Other’s Art – A great way to get started is to look at other artists and their work. Other artists can be inspiring, as long as you don’t copy. Seeing someone else’s character can give you ideas on what to do with yours. Tumblr, again, is a great place for this. Be respectful though, be sure to not mimic their character too closely.
I’d thought I would show you two of my original characters that I created a few months ago. I’m a bit self-conscious about showing my art, but I wanted to give it a try. These two characters, Nell and Oliver, are twins in a steampunk-inspired world. I hope you enjoy them, the drawings aren’t the best, but I love them nonetheless. I’ve changed both of their designs a bit, but these are the original designs I created for the two.
*”Oliver”, “Scavenger Wolfdog”, “Nell”, and “Scavenger Blackbird” created by myself, for my personal use only* *Please do not steal, copy, or post anywhere else without my permission*
Maybe seeing some of my own art will inspire you to create. Use these methods, and have fun! Be unique and just listen to what you want to do! 🙂
With The Pencil In Hand 