Project Specification

Research question/problem

Is it possible to develop a range of unique creature designs inspired by South Korean mythology?

Context of the project

South Korean mythology is a relatively untapped source of inspiration in Western popular culture. In comparison with Japanese mythology, for example, there is enormous potential to create a unique range of iconic imagery.

For the animated film, How to Train Your Dragon (2010) several unique species of dragon were developed by the Concept Artists. This research aims to take a similar approach with South Korean mythology as a starting point.

Objectives of the project:

to research South Korean mythology as a source of inspiration;

to investigate previous animations and games inspired by mythology;

to understand and explore the visualization techniques used to create varied creature designs;

to develop a unique visual style inspired by the folk paintings of South Korea;

to design and develop a range of creatures inspired by South Korean mythology;

to critically evaluate the outcome, using peer review sessions with fellow students and through feedback from professional online communities.

Expected end product(s)

The body of visual work will be presented in the form of an art book. In order to be a unique and engaging presentation, the art book will be organised as a ‘found journal’ to exist in the imaginary world of the animation/game.

Proposed process

Skills learnt during the taught phase of the Masters scheme will be exercised and developed. Also, professional techniques and methodologies will be planned and implemented as demonstrated by industry professionals met with during the Concept Art Practice module.

Participants

Ongoing feedback will be given by the Supervisor of this project, Nigel Kitching. Third party evaluation will be obtained from face-to-face and online meetings with twelve fellow students studying MA Concept Art for Games and Animation. A number of peers will be given opportunity to supply comments and criticism through professional online communities.

Justification for masters

The project can be considered to be at Masters level because of the intention to create work of a professional standard utilising a novel research area. Using South Korean Mythology as a starting point is a novel research aspect because it is a relatively untapped source of inspiration in Western popular culture. This project will hopefully produce an original and refreshing contribution to the fantasy genre of Concept Art.