Background
Design Goal
Create a captivating storyboard that displays the design or setting its based in
References & Inspiration
References for this project include a mix of both fantasy media and media based around the science of evolution
The Vehicle
References
Various desert crafts from fantasy and sci-fi media were referenced
Sketching
Initial concept sketches for the desert craft
Refined Drawings
Refining the “dirtbike” concept through CAD drawings
Final Design & Model
The bike’s final design is proportioned to fit multiple people while still feeling sleek and speedy. The name “Whitewood Earwig” was given based on its similar shape to a monocar from the 1930s, and the earwig-like spines on the front and back
Driver’s seat
Broad wheels for traversing across sand
Front prongs act as a cowcatcher
Steering mechanism
Storage area
Side platforms
The Expedition Team
References
Both fantasy and real-life historical desert clothing were referenced for this project
Sketching
The team’s outfits were adapted depending on their role, their personalities and tools they use.
Concept Drawings
The concept drawings for the crew locked in their outfits, along with fleshing out their weapons and equipment
Finalized Designs
The finalized character designs of the main trio were designed and colored to reflect their roles and personalities. Liri’s role is both the wizard and tank, Helane is the team’s recon and assasin and Hadin is both parts brawn and brain.
The Wildlife
References
Various fantasy and real-life desert animals were referenced for the star creature in this story
A plethora of body shapes were experimented with - this story involves a chase scene, so the creature has to be speedy in some way
Sketching
Concept Drawings
The top designs from the thumbnail phase were refined and expanded
Finalized Design
This final design is named the “Devil Rat”. In lore, it is a species of rodent evolved to take the place as a medium sized predator in these deserts
Incredible sense of smell
Localized fat deposits indicate the animal’s health
Incisors have conjoined into a tooth battery & forms a vicious pair of fangs
Bare tail acts as a thermal window, allowing the animal to shed excess heat
Long, powerful legs allow the Devil Rat to have a very energy efficient gait
