Escape Character Design!


Yes, I'm still here! I know... five months, no posts, but I had baby in January, which is my third munchkin if anyone is counting. This means 90% of my day is spent kissing hurt fingers, reading Richard Scarry books out loud, making Star Wars shaped lunch items (wookiee tortillas anyone?) and having dance parties in the living room. As for the other 10%, I was, and still am, busy with work-related art projects -- which are fun and exciting, but like most work-related art projects, they aren't something I can share here yet.
However! While I was off sleepless and zombie-like in cute newborn land, this movie came out. I worked on it back in 2007 until I learned I was expecting my daughter and no longer wanted to commute to Vancouver. I'd long ago buried this artwork on an external hard-drive, but now that the film has been released, I thought I'd dig out some of my favorite pieces.
Since little babies and theaters don't mix, I still haven't actually seen the film, but I can't wait to!
The drawing above is of the film's villain. I had no idea at the time that he would eventually be voiced by William Shatner. I probably would have gotten all starry-eyed and too nervous to actually do a good design.


This design never made it out of the art department, as far as I know anyway. But I liked him!



There were several character designers and we all collaborated. I ended up focusing mainly on Shanker -- the villain, and Gary -- the protagonist of the film. Working on Gary meant I was also helping establish what his race looked like. The painting above is an early idea.


This is another take. I still like his curvy legs and space shoes.


This was the painting where we all said "Okay! Yeah! That's him!" But then we needed to figure out what his body looked like and define his face more.


I believe this was my next attempt. I thought it would be neat to have more alien shaped feet and hands, but I think there were concerns that he wouldn't be relatable if he was too unusual looking.



My painting here is a little flat, but you can tell we are narrowing things down.

Here's a lineup of Gary's family with an even more finalized Gary. The Scorch sketch on the left was something I did one afternoon because no one had done any designs for Scorch yet. When I left, he was not a major character, but he seems to be all over the film now. That was probably the coolest surprise for me when I saw the trailer.


This is a version of Io. I think Io is a female now. I based this painting on someone else's design. I think it was either David Krentz's or Fred Gambino's.
And this was another design that didn't make it out of the art department. I liked all his ears, though! Super hearing!
I've mentioned David and Fred, and I should also mention that the talented Michele Graybeal, Gary Glover, Sarah Airiess, Tim Guyer, Daniel Leech and Greg Spalenka, along with our production designer, Barry E. Jackson, also all worked hard on the character designs and look of the film. (Please forgive me if I've forgotten anyone!)
Anyway, since my newest little love is nearly five months old, I'll hopefully be posting more often. Stay tuned. :)

Comments

Toria said…
Saw the movie, enjoyed it. Loved the character designs. Great work.
Joanne Roberts said…
The character design was the thing that put this on my must see list. I hope you enjoy it too.
Thanks for posting this inspiring look into your artwork.
Moms rule!
Anonymous said…
I am so glad you are posting again! I've missed your art. =] Though I know how busy kids can make a person.
Love the designs.
S.
Unknown said…
Fascinating! Can't wait to see the outcome. Your blog a real story with development.
SCOOTSKY said…
Been missing YOU!!! Welcome back.
sarah said…
Thank you so much everyone! Now to get some art posted that isn't six years old. :)
Aaron Ludwig said…
Congrats on the baby, and awesome work on the designs!
Adam Ford said…
Congratulations! And these are beautiful designs. Love the ear guy
Unknown said…
I loved the movie, loved the characters... and it was a pleasure to discover your artwork... I wish I can paint like you :D
Charles Eubanks said…
Yay, an update! Been missing your art. I haven't seen this movie yet, but I love these designs!
Mari said…
So great to have you back! They're lovely, as always ^ ^,
Heather Dixon said…
Congrats with the movie! And with the new cute little baby! That's fantastic all around.
Shawn Boyles said…
Wow! These are gorgeous. Thanks for posting them. Can't wait to see what you've been up to in the last 6 years.
Unknown said…
I recently discovered your blog but I can feel the life your posts are emitting coming right off my screen! It's a real inspiration, one that allowed me to open up when drawing again and not worry about anything.

Hope everything goes well with your tight schedule, managing the kids, etc!
Olubunmi john said…
You are really a great inspiration for me...love your art style and painting...i am happy cos i draw cartoon like you too..but i have to learn your style of painting..nice arts mom(lolz)...and my regards to your kids..most especially the new earth visitor..lolz
krapula said…
Welcome back and congrats for the new baby!
L Rossi said…
Awesome designs Sarah :)
I haven't seen the film - but gotta say, seeing these makes me want to!
-
And can I also just say, it's amazing how you can do all that you do :)