GAME 130 Concept Art - Characters

4 credits

This course covers the essential skills required for the creation of character concept art for the video game and illustration industries through combining traditional drawing with digital imaging software. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in anatomy, proportions, shape language, gesture, expression, cultural diversity, color palette, lighting and rendering. This course nurtures creative thinking, technical proficiency, and a deep understanding of the skills needed to pursue careers as character artists in video game development studios, animation studios, or freelance illustration.

Prerequisites: ART 121 and GAME 122 or DSGN 122

ART 205 recommended

Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Generate ideas, sketch and brainstorm to iterate and refine character designs based on narrative and thematic considerations
Develop characters with distinct personalities, backstories and physical and cultural diversity
Develop skills in digital art software such as Adobe Photoshop, Procreate, or similar 2D art tools
Explore different art styles and their applications in character design relevant to current industry trends
Describe the psychological and emotional impact of color in character design
Create effective color palettes to convey mood, personality, and narrative elements
Explore how character design contributes to storytelling in video games and illustrations
Present characters for critical review and develop openness in discussions and interactions with instructor and peers

Total Hours: 60 Theory (Lecture) Hours: 20 Guided Practice (Lab or Clinical) Hours: 40