June POOL 2012

cartoonist Normally when I design a character for animation, I start with small sketches that have just forms and shapes that define the overall form and silhouette of the character. I always go from the general shape to the specific elements in my design. I always try to keep a strong contrast in shapes and angles and make sure there are no tangents or loose elements in it. I make sure I get a strong silhouette. Getting a strong silhouette from all angles is a very important part of my process! The face is the next most important part of a character, so I make sure it has the kind of appeal and attitude I am looking for.

If I have to work on a pre-decided style I try to understand how the style guide works. I pick up the key elements that define that style. If I have the freedom to come out with a new style then I start exploring with various forms and shapes.

I study elements or any art form that may be associated with the storyline. For instance, if the story revolves around any specific part of the world, then we can pick elements from the local art forms practiced in that area. This helps not only to come up with unique styles but also to maintain a link to the roots of that culture, which is present in the script. The best examples of this are the designs for Disney’s Mulan and The Emperor’s New Groove.

How important is research in your field of work?

DK: Research plays an important part in this field. Visual development for a film requires a lot of study about the subjects you are working on – the location in which a story is told, its characters, their costumes, ethnicity, geography, period, props and so on. Every detail about the subject needs to be taken into account before designing it. Research can also help in developing a whole new perspective towards the design part. Disney’s Mulan is one of the perfect examples of how research can help you develop a whole new and very exiting style of design.

What is the most challenging part of being a visual development artist?

DK: It’s a very challenging yet fun job! The most challenging part is to create things according to the need of the script or your director’s vision, and that which can also appeal to the masses. It’s very challenging to create stuff that amazes and surprises viewers. It’s tough to relate to and draw according to someone else’s vision. You have to understand what the director’s vision or the need of the script is - try and stick as close to this and then try to improvise and add to it as a designer. Another challenge is to be innovative all the time! As www.poolmagazine.in 35