"Create Original Characters: Character Design for Aspiring Authors (Part 1)" is designed for young creators with a story to tell and characters to develop! In this class, students will learn the essentials of character design, from the basics of shape language to finalizing characters that align with their manuscripts. Whether students are crafting their first book, comic, or graphic novel, this course will give them the tools to bring their original characters (OCs) to life. Taught by a seasoned illustrator in the industry, this class provides expert guidance to help students refine their artistic skills and bring their stories to life.

Over the course of six weeks, students will dive deep into character development, exploring facial expressions, body language, and character interaction with props, all while refining their designs through live feedback. This is the first class in the "So You Want to Publish a Book" series, setting a foundation for future courses in backgrounds, world-building, and storytelling.

Class Experience:
In this 6-week class, students will learn the principles of character design and how to create compelling, original characters for their stories. Each week will focus on different aspects of design, from shape language and proportions to character interaction with props from their manuscripts.

What will be taught?

Fundamentals of character design: shape language, expressions, and poses.
Refining character sketches through proportion, gesture, and facial expression.
How to add personality through clothing, color, and accessories.
Character interaction with props to emphasize personality and storytelling.
What topics will you cover?

Shape language and its impact on personality.
Drawing expressions and body poses that match a character’s personality.
Exploring gesture and movement to show dynamic character interaction.
Finalizing character design with details, color, and props from their manuscript.

How will you teach? The class will be taught live over Zoom in a highly interactive and engaging format. I will guide students through each stage of the design process, providing visual examples, live demonstrations, and personalized feedback. Students will have time during class to work on their sketches, and I will offer real-time guidance to help them develop their ideas.

What’s your teaching style? As a seasoned illustrator in the industry, my teaching style is hands-on and supportive, with a focus on helping students develop their creative vision while honing technical skills. I encourage students to explore their ideas, experiment with their designs, and learn through feedback. I aim to create a fun and inspiring environment where every student feels comfortable sharing their work and receiving constructive critique.

This class is ideal for teens aged 13-18 who have a manuscript or story idea and want to bring their characters to life through illustration. No prior experience with character design is necessary, just a passion for storytelling and creativity!

Note:
This class is Part 1 of the "So You Want to Publish a Book" series, with future courses focusing on backgrounds, world-building, and other essential elements for creating a fully illustrated story.