Presenting Dimitria, the first oligarch designed

Hi there, friends and foes of democracy!

How you all doing?

For the last 18 months, I have dedicated my work on the game to develop the scenarios and the city animation. However, I have two artists working part time creating the characters, and so this month I decided to dedicate some time to prepare documents and examples to support their work.

Problem: My oligarchic characters are complex

I have been scared of creating the oligarchic characters of the game, as in my fantasy they should be truly special: they should have lots of character, their clothes and physical appearance should hint of their stories and activities,  they should look rich. I have been scared that my demands are excessive, that I would ask my artists to redo their work too many times. 

Main solution: I have drawn an example character and written instructions

As a professor, I have learned that a good way to lead is by example. Whenever I ask my students to make a final paper, or a type of research, or a type of graph or table, I try to show examples of mine. When comparing semesters, I can see that once I introduce those examples the quality of their work improves significantly. They love to know what they are should be aiming to acchieve.

Thus, I decided to draw one of the oligarchs with as much detail and care as I posssibly could. I spent a day this week just doing that. Sp here I present my character: Dimitra, the matriarch of the Agrotis family.

Further solution: Detailed instructions

I have also written detailed instructions on each of the oligarchic families, as well as the individuals in those families. Here is the description for the Agrotis, the family of Dimitra:

Introduction. The Agrotis family works with agricultural production, in particular vineyards, and wine production. They believe to be the most important family in town, as wine is the most important exporting good there.

Characteristic elements. 

• Grapes and wine.
• Leaves, including grape leaves.
• Wine jar (not yet included).
• Needlework (bordado), which feels very organic.

Colors. 

• Green, representing agricultural work.
• Purple, like all oligarchs, but also due to their wine production.
• White, like all oligarchs, as it is considered a sign of purity and prestige (it is hard to keep the fabric white over time).

Description of the individuals

• The patriarch is fat and short. He is seen holding his hands. White.
• The matriarch is taller and delicate, but of soft construction. She brings grapes as a snack for herself and others.
• Daughter (10 years old). A bit fat. I may create this one.

Conclusion

After dedicating a few days to conceptualize and draw an example oligarch, I now feel confident that we will produce amazing characters for each of them. They are all secondary in the story, enemies of the player who are barely seen or interacted with. They are distant evil presences that should communicate more through image then dialogue. I am happy anticipating lots of fun and nice art.