Character Design by Carmela Toro

Carmela Toro’s approach is simple: stop copying what you see and start interpreting it. This course is about building a bridge between perspective and anatomy to create characters that feel alive, not just technically correct. You’ll learn to exaggerate, simplify, and distort the human form to inject personality into every line.

🎯 What you’ll learn

• Apply stylized anatomy rules to create expressive character profiles.
• Develop a personal drawing voice by interpreting form, not copying it.
• Design three distinct characters with unique shapes and personalities.

✅ Requirements

• Skills: Basic drawing skills and a willingness to experiment.
• Tools: Any drawing medium you’re comfortable with (traditional or digital).
• Hardware: A sketchbook or drawing tablet.

📝 Description

This isn’t a course about memorizing every muscle insertion. Carmela focuses on the why behind the shape. You’ll start by breaking down the fundamentals of anatomy, then immediately push them into stylized territory. The goal is to understand how a simple change in a jawline or shoulder slope can completely shift a character’s vibe.

The lessons are short and practical, built around quick exercises that get you drawing from the first minute. Carmela’s teaching style is direct and encouraging, pushing you to stop worrying about “getting it right” and start focusing on what makes a character feel real. You’ll work through the basics of the face and body, then apply those rules to create three completely different character profiles. It’s about finding your own voice by learning the rules well enough to break them.

🧑‍🎓 Who this course is for

• Illustrators looking to move beyond realistic anatomy into a more expressive style.
• Character designers who want to add more personality and variety to their work.
• Anyone who feels stuck in a rut and wants a fresh, conceptual approach to drawing.

🧑‍🏫 About the Author

Carmela Toro is an illustrator who has worked across design, animation, and storyboarding. She found her unique voice by sharing her process on social media, helping others discover their own path. Her work is known for its bold lines, expressive characters, and a focus on the emotional power of a simple silhouette.

🏁 Final Result

• Three distinct character profile drawings, each with a unique concept, shape, and personality.