Dec Yeti WIP

[Chris Philpot]

Hi there. In an effort to improve my story ideas, I'm starting early and seeking feedback. So, please let me know how this story idea is reading to you all? I know the character design inconsistent and not terribly original at the moment. My hope is to get the story elements figured out first and then enjoy the character design. That said, feel free to weigh in on any aspect of these sketches. Thanks so much!

[Chris Philpot]

Ok, another step in the road to yeti dad and his horrible babies. Not sure I'll keep any of this but I can edit later I suppose.

[Kim Rosenlof]

I really like the idea of a yeti dad and the pictures are really funny. I didn't read it as a dad/child relationship at first, I got it after reading your post; however, once I knew the relationship, it all made sense together. Maybe you could label the character sheet as "Dad Yeti" to make it clear. Maybe others on the forum saw the dad and child yeti in it, but I didn't at first. I do really like the characters and the idea! Great job.

[Kim Hunter]

I like it. I can really see his personality and the tired plus tolerance in him. The story shows. I think you're on the right track and the babies bring an extra level of cuteness.

[Chris Philpot]

@Kim-Rosenlof Thanks for the fresh eyes! I wondered if the relationship was communicating. Maybe if I give the kids a few characteristics that are obviously related it will read better in the more finished drafts.

[Chris Philpot]

I'm probably oversharing but it's keeping me moving forward. These may not qualify as neutral poses. Maybe I'll make him more resigned and less gestural in the second one.

[JoshuaDages]

@Chris-Philpot I love these poses! I'm struggling too with neutral poses because I want to show the yeti's character!

I wonder if your yeti could be holding the creature (left image) while sitting down, so you can integrate the "sitting" criterium of the contest? The right-side image could also be him "walking" haha. Just a thought. Really good job so far!

[Chris Philpot]

@JoshuaDages That's a good idea. I might do that. Thanks so much!

[Kim Hunter]

Ditto on the neutral pose dilemma. With only 5 poses, I want to get as much into them as possible. Wonder if we could get an official opinion on this?

[DaveLeekArt]

I read this as this yeti stumbled across a little cute fur ball of sorts that he decided to bring home and then it/they wreaked havoc on him for a while before calming down and they then become friends. Am I close? Are you going to included the little critter(s) in the finished submission as well? Could be a cool add-on character if you’ve got time for the extra work.

[Cayleen]

@Chris-Philpot Ohh, I love the baby yetis!!! I read these as babies from the first go, but, if you go with the first sketches where the dad yeti has horns, I'd give the babies little horn nubs to match him a bit better and not just be fuzz balls. Also, maybe rounding the dad's body a bit and shortening his legs to match their roundyness too?

[Chris Philpot]

@Cayleen Excellent. Yeah, just fluff won't be enough to tie them together as the same species. Will look at the horns again or some other anatomical cue. Thanks!

[Nyrryl Cadiz]

@Chris-Philpot these are not character designs but rather spot illustrations which is not a bad thing. This may get disqualified in the contest but they’re great illustrations and perfect additions to a portfolio. If this is what you really want, I say go for it. What matters is that you’re doing what makes you happy. Also, yeti dad looks adorable and the babies are a riot. I love them.

[Chris Philpot]

@Nyrryl-Cadiz Thanks! I think you're right about the character design vs. spots. I do enjoy the contests but I try to keep in mind that portfolio pieces and finding my own voice are the ultimate goals. The competition element is fun but not an end unto itself. That said, I have a strong people-pleasing streak and hate breaking rules. I'll probably split the difference and see what comes of that. Thanks again!

[Chris Philpot]

@DaveLeekArt I'll include the little fuzzballs with some story elements to make them more obviously infant yetis. Thanks!

[Chris Philpot]

@Kim-Hunter Thanks!

[Nyrryl Cadiz]

@Chris-Philpot i agree. When I join contests, I always try to tailor my entry to what I want and what my portfolio needs. Just like what Will always says. Follow your gut with this piece. Make it yours.

[Naters.Art]

love the render!

[Chris Philpot]

@Naters-Calderone Thanks!

[Chris Philpot]

Here's how these yetis are looking. Gonna sleep on it and make a last round of edits tomorrow with fresh eyes hopefully. Thanks again for all the replies!