Have you ever thought about how or by whom the characters and objects in a computer game are being developed? Calum Alexander Watt, based in the UK but working for an international clientele, is one of the people bringing these objects to life. As an illustrator, concept and storyboard artist it’s his job to create refined characters for the entertainment industry, creating extraordinary gaming experiences.
The extremely detailed characters are based on quite a work process before they reach their final stage. For Calum Watt, the initial sketching stage of the character is the most fun, as he loves telling a narrative and giving the character a personality through objects, postures and expressions. Being a huge fan of comic books, he especially enjoys storyboarding which allows him to create a sequence by putting together interconnected images. After presenting the client several different sketches, or a breakdown of key actions in the case of a storyboard, he does the necessary redrawing, adds details and colour. This process adds extra form, light and material depth to the concept. Today, his entire output is digital as it gives him more freedom in changing and evolving a design. Using Wacom Cintiq and Sketchbook Pro the illustrations seem almost like naturally drawn works.
After having already concepted for Disney, Framestore, Sega and DC Entertainment, Calum Watt is currently creating in-game cinematic frames for DC/WB Batman Arkham Origins Blackgate game. Not solely relying on his trade mark style or approach, he often changes his style in order to explore new ways to describe forms and ideas, keeping his work fresh and existing to look at.
Aug. 27, 2013
Design Academy Eindhoven
Scuola Politecnica di Design
Central Saint Martins
Academy of Design Australia
LOFT 42
Red Dot design award
