Research
So a lot of people ask me, do I have to research everything I'm going to sculpt in Zbrush? And the answer is actually no... You don't have to research everything, only the things you want to look good"
- Zac Petroc 2016 | ZBrush Summit
Original research is the pillar of design. Not just visual but academic research too. Our hero lives in a world were both sci-fi and fantasy co-exist. Despite Dí Mài-hè being Sci-fi himself, his design would need to reflect existing in a world where fantasy is very real.
He also exists in a time of war and will emerge as a hero and a peacemaker. What does this look like? My research brought me to some significant historical figures which I draw my inspiration from. These figures emerged during the 6th Century times of Jahiliyyah in the Arab desert, The era of Apartheid in South Africa, and the civil rights movement in America.
These figures both represented a purpose of peace, yet needed to face a militant oppression. The strong morals they held even in times of war and injustice need to be reflected in our hero.
Mood Board
When collecting reference I felt it vitally important to steer away from existing artistic interpretations. This means other films, games or artwork was a no no. Like J.R.R Tolkien did with Lord of the Rings, I took things readily existing in our world and intend to connect them in a beautiful, harmonic way.
//That being said I couldn't resist including some images from Beserek and Rouge One ^.^
All the best and may guidance be with you.
Soul
