Anwar, R., Hassan, M., El Naggar, R. (2025). Form Expression in Character Design. International Design Journal, 15(5), 163-169. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.390037.1346
Reham Anwar; Manal Abd El Rahim Hassan; Rehab allah Ahmed Hany El Naggar. "Form Expression in Character Design". International Design Journal, 15, 5, 2025, 163-169. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.390037.1346
Anwar, R., Hassan, M., El Naggar, R. (2025). 'Form Expression in Character Design', International Design Journal, 15(5), pp. 163-169. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.390037.1346
Anwar, R., Hassan, M., El Naggar, R. Form Expression in Character Design. International Design Journal, 2025; 15(5): 163-169. doi: 10.21608/idj.2025.390037.1346
Decoration Department, Faculty of Applied Arts, Helwan University, Egypt
Abstract
The research aims to emphasize that designing a character with strong expressions and emotions -that attracts the viewer- can be achieved through a simple yet impactful form. Sometimes, a designer may focus solely on the character's details—such as limb movements or facial features—to convey emotions, while the body remains static and unexpressive, resulting in a weak overall character expression. Therefore, when the basic, simple structural form of a character’s design carries a strong and clear expression, the final character design will stand out with a powerful impact on the viewer. This is explored through three key factors in character design: good acting, exaggeration, and simplification. Through these points, the research follows an analytical approach by examining outstanding works of various artists and understanding their methods for achieving a character design with strong expression. The researcher also presents some of her own experiments in deriving expressive forms from abstract folded papers. Based on the findings, the research concludes that when expression comes from the entire body form—not just its posture, limb movements, or facial features—its impact on the viewer becomes stronger, evoking a deeper interaction. Moreover, the designer must continuously study and analyze human anatomy to properly exaggerate forms and convey expression through them on a solid foundation.
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