Illustration & Visual Narrative - Task 1: Vormator Challenge
Illustration & Visual Narrative - Task 1: Vormator Challenge
TABLE OF CONTENT
LECTURES
Week 1
We were provided with resources, lectures and information about the module via Google Classroom. This week was dedicated to introducing us to Adobe Illustrator.
Week 2
Our task was to trace around a Vormator shape and create a character based on it without distorting, stretching or cutting the shape. To make it easier, we were given video tutorials, games to master the pen tool, and direct instruction in class to learn how to outline correctly.
Week 3
This week we explored the Shape Builder and Pathfinder tools. These tools allowed us to add shadows and create depth in an image, allowing us to add volume to our character.
INSTRUCTION
TASK
Task 1: Vormator
Our first task is to trace the Vormator shapes that have been provided and create original character without stretching, cutting and distorting the shapes.
1. Research
I originally wanted to create a cute monster, inspired by our teacher's work. I searched the internet for ideas and sketches to find something suitable. Inspired by different characters, I decided to make my monster friendly and not too scary, with soft and rounded shapes to make it look cute and funny.
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| Fig 1.1 illustration of a monster cactus |
2. Character Development
After I had decided on the idea, I started to develop the character in more detail. I tried to think of what kind of character he would have, what he would symbolise. I added cute features such as big eyes, small ears and a fluffy tail. At first the sketches were pretty simple, but gradually I started to improve the details and make the shapes more expressive. To make the character look friendly, I chose bright colours and simple but expressive lines. During the design process, I also paid attention to proportions to keep the character harmonious and balanced.
3. Shape tracing
In order to make the tracing results as similar as possible to the original, I used the prepared instructions. The ‘Pen’ and ‘Curvature’ tools allowed me to trace the shapes accurately and make the lines smooth and neat. As a result, the tracing was quite accurate and the character looked harmonious.
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| Fig 1.2 Final Traced Shapes without Shape Layer |
4. Digitisation
When I set out to create the character, I added a few details to emphasise his uniqueness. The concept was to create a cactus that is both cute and dangerous. Despite his kind eyes and rounded shape, his thorns still retain a sense of menace and power. I left the thorns prominent and pronounced so that they become an important part of the image, showing that this character, although he looks friendly, can be dangerous if he gets hurt. I also added small flowers on his ‘body’, which enhance his appearance, making the image fresh and light, but not hiding his natural defences.
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| Fig. 1.3 Character outline |
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| Fig 1.7 Character Silhouette |
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| Fig 1.8 Extra (With shadow and highlight using Pathfinder and Shape Builder) |
5. Final Design
For the silhouette, I chose 3 colors, that is green, light green and pink .
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| Fig 1.9 Outline and Silhouette (Final) |
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| Fig 1.10 Extra (Outline and Silhouette with shadings) |
FEEDBACK
I did not receive any direct feedback, but I did read several multiple feedbacks from students to whom Mr Hafeez gave comments. It was said that lines should not be drawn, only colour should be used. Also the silhouette of the character should be done in only three colours. Additional elements can be added using lines, but it is important not to distort the original Vormator shapes or create new elements.
REFLECTION
The Vormator Challenge was interesting and easy to work on, as I already had experience with Adobe Illustrator. The task with restrictions on colours and number of shapes was a creative challenge. I quickly got to grips with the process and completed the work with confidence, happy with the result.
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