Arksimov

A new piece following this creative exercise: I randomize 3 concepts from a previously prepared list and try to create a character based on them. For this, I use a simple spreadsheet with 3 lists (2 repeated + 1 additional one with complementary concepts), although there are many similar tools online.

Here we have Arksimov, the result of combining the following concepts: Robot, Crystal and Jungle.

Here we have Arksimov, the result of combining the following concepts: Robot, Crystal and Jungle.

Let’s build his story: for this character, I imagine a post-apocalyptic setting. Arksimov is a walking nature reserve. A modern-day Noah's ark that functions past humanity's final debacle. One of the many androids that preserve a whole small ecosystem inside.

Its outer structure is transparent, so that sunlight can reach the life forms it contains and some sections can open so that rain can get to the interior.

Arksimov's brain is an electronic model that combines the thought patterns of Doctors Noah Peterson and Naamah David, famous biologists who fought for the preservation of natural life before the disappearance of human beings.

(Above) Some initial sketches. Before this, I was considering making a wooden robot that lived in the jungle, as an ancient device created by other civilizations, and adding the crystal concept as a secondary attribute.

(Below) Comparison between the rough colour tests and the final illustration + final pencils for the portraits.

Layered evolution of the body illustration:

From time to time, I will share some of the results of these experiments!

Posted on Jan 16, 2023
Raúl Gil
Illustration for brands, products & publications.

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