By the time I came to redesigning the Metal Sigil, I was much more familiar with the desired aesthetic for the Callers franchise. I took the liberty of heightening the edginess of the design to better match my knowledge of the character this Sigil represents, Kai Ten. Note the original sketch:
...compared to my illustration:
Those extra spikes are inspired by Xin’s desire for sharpness, and Kai’s signature weapon: the kunai.
It was drawing this weapon that led me to develop a new technique which I refer to as the “chrome effect”. Using Google Images to research different metal objects, I studied how the direction of light caused the variety of shades to translate the texture of the object. I then applied this knowledge to a photograph of a kunai, which became inspiration for my own drawing. Later, we decided to have this kunai as part of the Dynamic Sigil Art.
This experience informed the creation of my chain brushes, since the Dynamic Sigil Art is designed to incorporate details which reflect Kai Ten. As her signature mode of transport, which you can find out more about across the website and, of course, in the book, the chains are vital to the character, and therefore her artwork. But I had little desire to hand draw each damn link of each damn chain forever, if I could avoid doing so. Always eager to learn and progress, I rose to the challenge of creating my own brush for the very first time. I created the shape of the link and adjusted the brush settings to create the impression of chains via a series of monotone effects which move with the brush. The shape for the chains specifically used in the Dynamic Metal image required additional effects applied (“Bloom”, “Chromatic Aberration”, and a second layer that is slightly misplaced) in order to make the chain look properly connected.
Kai’s eyes, inspired by Riddick’s (Pitch Black, 2000, David Twohy), were hand drawn with the same techniques in mind, using pencil in a variety of grey shades, and smudge brushes to create the spherical look. My chrome effect was also later applied to the lettering for “CALLERS” on the book cover, and used to create another of Kai’s weapons, the shuriken.
The red in the background of this piece is a subtle reference to Kai Ten’s loyalty to her master, Valon. Altogether, the chains, kunai, those piercing eyes, and blood red backdrop form the Metal Arsenal.
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