Animation · Character design · Environments
Discovery Pod
Expressive characters. Worlds waiting to be discovered.
Expressive characters. Worlds waiting to be discovered.
Discovery Pod is a visual development project for an animated adventure universe. Lorena creates the characters and environments, from the character design of Ernest, Lyra and Peter to natural settings and the pod that accompanies their explorations.
Art direction
Distinct silhouettes, stylized proportions and expressive faces differentiate the cast. Lyra’s energetic personality, Peter’s curiosity and Ernest’s world of inventions establish a lively visual contrast. Vegetation, depth and lighting shape environments that support a sense of discovery.
From character to scene
The boards trace a path from construction, pose and expression studies to colored characters and fully staged scenes. The AI-assisted workflow is directed by an illustrator’s experience: selection, consistent shapes, composition and art direction remain central to the visual development.
Character design — meet the cast
Ernest, Lyra, Peter and the greyhound are explored through multiple views and facial expressions. These boards connect identity, costume and readable silhouettes, providing visual references for consistency between poses and scenes.
Studies, proportions & expressions
Character exploration starts with shape: stylized anatomy, height comparisons, silhouettes and variations in expression. The studies connect personality with design, while accessories and gadgets help define each character’s visual identity.
Poses, action & personality
Lyra playing bass and Peter on a skateboard test the character designs in motion. Lines of action, gesture, balance and interaction with objects communicate personality through clear, dynamic poses.
Environments & worlds to discover
From Ernest’s workshop to an oversized forest, a prehistoric valley and the flying pod: each environment builds atmosphere and wonder. Composition connects characters and settings through scale, lighting and depth.
