Creative character design (paperback)

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. The content on the book is based on Bryan's popular 2009 Comic-Con course on "Character Design."

What Makes For Good Character Design?, Archetypes, Story, Originality, Shapes and Silhouette, Reference, Asthetics, The WOW Factor, Putting It All Together, Glossary

Character Designers working in animation, comic books, or games, illustrators, sequential artists

"Excellent breakdown of the key elements of character design. This is a great starting point for anyone interested in developing their own stories and ideas into effective visuals." -David Silva, sculptor/ designer, Creative Beast Studio

"An exciting new approach to character design, including inside information on some of the more abstract design concepts." -Charl Anne Brew, professor of visual effects and motion graphics, The Art Institute of Washington

"Stories and characters are a lot like recipes and ingredients: when they work together they can make a greater whole-Bryan gets this concept and it is evident in this easily digested book. A must-have for anyone trying to gain a more comprehensive understanding of what goes into character design." -Sam Ellis, visual storyteller and lead designer for Archer on FX