Illustration and Visual Narrative - Task 1

Aina Ahmed Aleem / 0355701

Interactive Design / Bachelor of Design (Honors) in Creative Media

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TABLE OF CONTENT

1. Lectures

2. Instructions
3. Process - Task 1: Character Design
4. Feedback
5. Reflection

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LECTURES:

WEEK 1

In the first part of the lecture, we were introduced to Adobe Illustrator’s interface, learning how to navigate its workspace and tools. We also covered how to import documents either by linking (which keeps the file connected externally) or embedding (which places the file directly into the project). The second part focused on Illustrator essentials, including common file extensions like .ai, .eps, and .svg, useful shortcut keys for faster workflow, and the difference between exporting files as raster images (like .jpg or .png) and vector images (like .svg or .pdf) depending on the use case.

WEEK 2

We learned how to generate initial design sketches using AI tools like ChatGPT by crafting effective prompts. After preparing the Illustrator document, we used the Pen Tool (P) to draw line art and cleaned up shapes using the Shape Builder Tool (Shift+M). Finally, we added detail and variation by adjusting line thickness with the Width Tool (Shift+W), creating more dynamic and expressive artwork.

WEEK 3

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INSTRUCTIONS:

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TASK 1 - CHARACTER DESIGN

PROCESS

First, I generated a sketch using ChatGPT with the prompt: "Create rough sketches of simple characters with strong silhouettes, exploring cute, evil, or sad character designs." While the initial result was decent, I found it a bit too simple and lacking uniqueness. So, I followed up with a second prompt: "Based on the generated image, add more unique details to the characters." This time, the sketches felt much more refined and interesting. However, I still wanted to enhance them further, so I imported the image into Procreate and made additional tweaks to bring out more personality and detail in the characters.

 Initial AI-generated sketch exploring basic character silhouettes with cute, evil, and sad themes.

Refined AI sketch with added unique character details for more personality and depth.

Sketch further customized in Procreate to enhance design and personality.

After enhancing the sketches in Procreate, I was sure  about the first two sketches but I still wasn't satisfied with my third and final sketch. My idea was to create a friendly monster and I took inspiration from Monsters Inc to come up with this design. 

3rd character I sketched on procreate

Here is a rough composition of the selected three character sketches in one frame.

3 selected characters

Next, I set up an artboard in Adobe Illustrator and used the Pen Tool to outline each character and used the Width tool to give it more personality. 

FINAL OUTLINE COMPOSITION FOR TASK 1: CHARACTER DESIGN

Final Outline Composition for Task 1: Character Design

After finalizing the outlines, my first step was to prepare for coloring by ensuring all paths were properly connected. I then created additional layers dedicated to coloring and shadows. Using the Live Paint tool, I applied base colors, and for the shadows, I combined the use of the eraser tool and the blob brush to shape and refine the shading.

FINAL COLOURED COMPOSITION FOR TASK 1: CHARACTER DESIGN

Final Colored Composition for Task 1: Character Design

RATIONALE: 

I created these three characters to show different personalities using fun and bold designs. The bear is cute and friendly, with soft shapes, a bow tie, and a lollipop to make it look playful and sweet. The devil character is the opposite, designed to look mean and powerful with sharp shapes, dark colors, and items like a skull and a cape. The green alien is meant to be funny and cool, with one big eye, spiky edges, and accessories like sneakers and jewelry. Even though they are all very different, I used the same cartoon style and thick outlines to keep them looking like they belong together.