Hi All.
Had my first assessment on Monday afternoon (for the Masters) and I have to say it went really well. I was expecting bad news as it's felt like I've not been firing on all engines as yet, but head lecturer Steve had lots of good things to say about my work (and my ability). The only thing that let my grading down was the fact that I've been playing it safe with my artwork and "playing to type". Steve mentioned an interesting point regarding my developing Monster Band comic, the characters seem to be far too cute looking and friendly for the age range I'm aiming for (Early Teen). If I'd have been producing the artwork for my original intended market (6-10) it would have been perfect.
Steve suggested that I either have these really cute characters doing disgusting, monsterous things (a-la Ren & Stimpy) or I make them more monsterous in their appearance. I forgot to tell Steve that originally the characters were 'second division' monsters, less famous (and therefore less effective) than their well known counterparts, and I could use the fact that they are clearly not monsterous looking to my advantage, hence why they start a band (to become more famous).
I'm left with a little dilemma regarding this now (as to what direction I follow visually). I've been working on some variations for the characters and I've attached the working drawing of my favoured variants here. The other important factor I have to consider is a strong and definate storyline... and that is proving more difficult than anything (because I'm not a natural writer)..
Ultimately though, it's all good, and if this was too easy it wouldn't be worth doing.
What does everyone else think about the characters? Original or alternative?
I'd appreciate your thoughts.
A Venusian Slug. (BLOB)
For some reason whilst drawing the Wolfman, the term 'Gentleman Caller' kept popping into my head. Before I knew it I'd drawn him up with a briefcase and bowler... and here he is!
Loosening up a little with the POSCA. Here's an alternative design for Fishman Maxwell.
Here's some of the original sketches for the 'revised' monsters. I've done a little more development sketchwork for them recently (but haven't scanned them in yet). I'm still in a quandry over which approach to take with the band (and the story) and my heart is telling me to stick with the original designs and work on a stronger narrative for them.. but my head keeps telling me that it's just my heart telling me to 'cop out' and stick with what I know... Grr!
What do you think? I quite like the idea that Maxwell is a dapper chap, who not only knocks out some serious guitar chops, but rocks the sharp suit look.
Here's my entry for (a very late) word of the week. FILM.
Here's a sketched layout for an idea I had for some interaction between Maxwell and Socks.
Here's some sketches of some of the candidates to fill the drum stool of the band (prior to SOCKS joining them).
Here's an update on a few more character development sketches for the band.. This is the revised Wolfman design (he fits better with Vampire Renton now) notice the Invisible Man's socks.. hence his nickname 'SOCKS'.
