From Concept to Miniature

Creating miniatures is a journey of creativity, skill and patience. Each piece has its own story within our world of Ysgar, inspired by myths, symbols and sometimes a bit of the mystical. Today, we’re taking you behind the scenes of our creative process, sharing how we brought our latest release The Bloodvines or Arythill to life.

 

Step 1: Researching the Tarot Card “The Hermit”

Every creative process begins with inspiration and for this project it was “The Hermit” tarot card. This card symbolizes introspection, wisdom and solitude. The imagery of an old, wise figure, holding a lantern and walking a solitary path resonated deeply with us and fits perfectly into the cursed forest of Arythill. We dove into research, exploring the history and symbolism of “The Hermit” across different tarot decks, from Rider-Waite to more contemporary interpretations. Understanding the deeper meaning behind the card helped us capture the essence of “The Hermit” in our design.

 

Step 2: Looking for References and Brainstorming Designs

With a solid understanding of the card’s symbolism, we moved on to gathering visual references. This stage involvled looking at different interpretations of “The Hermit” in art and illustrations. We also explored imagery of monks, old gnarly wizards and sages, all of whom embody the wisdom of the card’s spirit in various ways. We brainstormed designs, sketched out ideas and combining different elements to find a unique look that fits well within Ysgar.

 

Step 3: Creating a Rough Concept Sheet with Multiple Designs

Armed with references and ideas, we began creating a rough concept sheet. This is where the magic truly starts to take shape. We sketched multiple designs, each exploring different poses, clothing, and accessories. Some designs emphasized a traditional look, with long robes and a staff, while others pushed boundaries with more abstract and modern interpretations. The goal was to explore as many creative avenues as possible and let the design evolve organically.

Step 4: Feedback Loop and Revision

Design is a collaborative process, and feedback is crucial. We shared the concept sheet with our team and gathered input. This feedback loop is an essential step that helps refine the design. Some suggestions focused on enhancing the character’s posture to better convey wisdom and solitude, while others recommended subtle changes to the lantern’s design or the texture of the robes. Revisions were made based on these insights, resulting in a more cohesive and striking design that captured the spirit of “The Hermit.”

Step 5: Finalizing the Concept

After several rounds of feedback and revisions, we finalized the concept. This version captured all the elements we loved: a solitary figure with a stoic expression, holding a lantern that symbolizes inner light, dressed in flowing robes that suggest a timeless wanderer. Final touches were added, including intricate details like the texture of the fabric, the design of the lantern, and subtle elements that hinted at the card’s deeper meanings.

Step 6: Sculpting the Model

With the final concept in hand, it was time to bring “The Hermit” to life through sculpting. Using digital sculpting software, we carefully translated the 2D concept into a 3D model. This stage required precision, as every detail from the folds of the robes to the texture of the lantern needed to be meticulously crafted. The sculpting process is where the character’s personality truly emerges, with subtle adjustments to posture, facial expressions, and proportions adding to the overall feel of the miniature.

Step 7: Preparing for 3D Printing

Once the sculpt was complete, we prepared the model for 3D printing. This involved creating supports and ensuring the model was optimized for printing without losing any of the intricate details we had worked so hard to capture. Proper support is essential to avoid any issues during printing, such as warping or incomplete prints. It’s a delicate balance between preserving the model’s integrity and ensuring a successful print.

Step 8: Test 3D-Printing

The final stage was test printing. We ran multiple test prints to ensure the design translated well from the digital model to a physical object. During this phase, we scrutinized every aspect of the print, from the smallest details to the overall structure. Any imperfections were noted, and adjustments were made to the digital model as needed. This iterative process ensured that the final product was as perfect as possible.

Conclusion

Bringing “The Hermit” to life was a journey that combined research, creativity, and technical skill. Each step, from initial concept to the final 3D print, was a testament to the dedication and artistry of our team. Seeing the finished miniature in hand, with all the details faithfully captured, was an incredibly rewarding experience. We hope this behind-the-scenes look gives you an appreciation for the artistry involved in transforming a simple concept into a tangible piece of art.

Whether you’re a fan of tarot, miniatures, or simply appreciate the creative process, we hope our journey inspires you to explore your own creative paths. Stay tuned for more insights into our future projects!

 

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