Cartoon Network is a nostalgic identity that most of us grew up watching and wish to work with. So, instead of hoping to collaborate with them one day, I just decided to make this self-initiated project.
I was always inspired by those short animations between shows made by individual artists. They look chaotic, stylized, and full of creative freedom.
Direction Approach
I wanted the whole identity to look just like classic Cartoon Network, but with a modern twist! I wanted the viewer to feel nostalgia, relevance, and fun!
Reiterating thoughts
The first sketches were fine, but they were generic and lacked depth. So, I added an Easter Egg, Cartoon Network characters, and a lore event by changing some key elements in the sketches! In my opinion, this really added to the overall storytelling.
Branding
I thought about the design approach, whether to go with the old or new Cartoon Network branding, and ended up with something fun right in between, hoping to make it relatable to both generations!
Design Concept
One of the biggest direction challenges I faced during the design process was bringing the Cartoon Network universe, which spans so many varied styles, into one consistent style throughout the entire motion piece.
Key Events Styleframes
Objects Design
I created everyday items that you’d expect to see in Cartoon Network’s world. Some of them are actually from the shows! Can you spot them?
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Textures
Textures were super powerful in this project! I divided them into two main categories. One for everything dark, and one for everything white (representing the brand). Anything else doesn’t follow this rule!
Animation Process
Once I was satisfied with the design, I took advantage of every concept decision I made to make the first part playful, awe-inspiring, and wonderful, yet I made the end hit a dark side. And the cycle repeats itself, a.k.a. the whole piece loops!
Characters
The character designs were fairly limited, but I pushed the rigging to the limit! Every character has a unique set of rigging techniques and ideas behind them, making them as unique as they are!
Direction
Storyboard
Illustration
Animation
Music Production
Sound Design
