Introduction to Character Design (Online)

You will be guided through all the stages necessary to design characters that may be used for traditional or computer animation, cut-out, stop motion, games, illustration, comic strips or advertising.

With an emphasis put very strongly on drawing, your tutor and professional character designer Shaun McGlinchey will introduce you to the fundamentals of character design; from basic anatomy and construction, personality, facial expression, acting potential, implied movement and stylisation, through to the standard production aspects of pose-sheets and turnarounds. Although you can use a computer and software and create your characters, please note that this course will not teach you how to use software, but rather teach you hands-on drawing techniques and how to generate compelling ideas and designs.

Throughout the course, students will be expected to complete short exercises during the online live sessions and longer assignments between sessions.

Some basic drawing experience is helpful but not required.

Topics covered:

• Introduction to basic construction
• Implied personality
• Combining shapes
• Posture
• Importance of silhouette
• Gesture and facial expressions
• Anthropomorphism
• The importance of contrast
• Ageing the character
• Introduction to the turnaround
• Managing colours

Learning Outcomes:

At the end of this course you will have a clear understanding of character design principles and the ability to create your own characters with confidence. You will also be able to communicate your ideas visually and demonstrate a good understanding of what makes a good character in various context.


Course Schedule - 8 weeks: 1.5 hours of live class per week

• Week 1 - Loosening up exercises, introduction to basic construction, simple exercises.
• Week 2 - Simple anatomy fundamentals, more construction, working with shapes, simple character design exercises.
• Week 3 - Implied personality, combining shapes, posture, importance of silhouette, character design exercises.
• Week 4 - Gesture, facial expressions, anthropomorphism, visual aesthetics, design exercises.
• Week 5 - The importance of contrast, introduction to iconic design, design exercises.
• Week 6 - Ageing the character, introduction to plastic design, introduction to the turnaround, design exercises.
• Week 7 - Introduction to skeletal design, creating a model sheet, designing for illustrated books.
• Week 8 - Advanced posing, creating a model sheet, colour basics, final exercises.

Please note: This course is for students aged 18 and older