I was skimming through some images on my computer and I came across this student work. These are representative of the works of some very talented folks from Layout and Character Design classes.

A wonderful example of character constructiuon in 2D from Rei Cayetano

 First with drawing, we would explore very simple basic structure with basic shapes (although we really meant forms – more of a 3D approach) and then build upon these forms. Next, a drawn model sheet was created and from that the participants had to take their characters to 3D in the form of MAQUETTES.

The goal was to see what happened when 2D was translated into 3D.

Many students put a extraordinary amount of effort into their characters. They began with a base, built a wire armature, layered the supper sculpey around and there worked on the details and smoothing - before baking it in their ovens.

Nate’s hero pirate mouse

Lindsey B.’s pirate mouse girl

An aged mouse

A sword slinging rabbit

Some of S. Hollis’ handiwork

This endeavor was an excellent exercise for them since most were headed into 3D CG animation.

At a later time, I will show some layouts and model sheets.

Keep Animated!

When any character is standing – an imaginary line runs vertically through to the feet. (fig. 1)

FIG-1a.jpg

Because they are standing with their weight

equally on their two feet, the character is

centered or balanced on those two feet.

The CENTER OF GRAVITY is that point that is also the center of the character’s weight. Most of the time the hips (or pelvis area ) usually carries the greatest amount of weight. (fig. 2)

FIG-2a.jpg

Obviously, that CENTER point can be located either higher or lower in the character- depending on the body type. (fig. 3)

FIG-3a.jpg

Notice above the differing center points on the body types.

Proportion is another element to take into consideration. (fig. 4)

FIG-4a.jpg

Long legs and torsos, as well as short legs and torsos – or any combination will effect the position of the characters’ center.

As long as the center point is positioned over the legs the character is centered.

Even more extreme poses should be centered.

(fig. 5)

FIG-5a.jpg

Now, a character should be centered even on poses where one foot touches the ground.

Here the idea is to have the weight centered over one foot.
(Fig. 6)

FIG-6a.jpg

Once the weight is centered – the pose can be VERY extreme.
(fig. 7)

FIG-7a.jpg

But, if the weight is centered away from the foot – the character can do only one thing… (fig.

FIG-8a.jpg

Fall…because the character is off balance…
(fig. 9 and 10)

FIG-9a.jpg

FIG-10a.jpg

If you want the character to fall- then okay…but, if a character’s center of gravity is too far back- it can never go forward.

During parts of some movements the character will be off balance…such as a walk.

In the passing position the character is generally balanced. (fig. 11)

FIG-11a.jpg

…but from there forward to the contact position the character if off center (with their weight and balance forward) and technically falling forward. (fig. 12)

FIG-12a.jpg

The next lesson will cover center of gravity during actions and movements.

TO RECAP

· THE CENTER OF GRAVITY of a character is based on the weight of the character balanced or centered over the feet.

· THE CENTER OF GRAVITY’s location can vary according to body type and proportions.

· Even when the character is on one foot, THE CENTER OF GRAVITY (determined by the weight of the character) is over that one foot

· If THE CENTER OF GRAVITY and weight are not centered the character will be off balance- this can impede the character’s ability to move.

I just received this by email today.

This the new music site of Michelle Armstrong Lauria aka MI, a singer/ songwriter with unlimited possibilities. Michelle is our daughter-in-law, she and our son Matt were married in Laguna Beach this summer (2006).

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What an event! Forget that MTV reality TV show - the wedding was beautiful and we had a blast the entire week. Daily parties, beach volleyball and body surfing…and art, were the order of the day.

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MI is an amazing singer/songwriter and a wonderful person!

Could there be an animated music video in the future….we’re talking possibilities!

ENJOY!