Foundation Patreon – Sci-Fi Design Part 1 – Surface & Cut-Lines by Keshan Lam

Foundation Patreon presents “Sci-Fi Designs Part 1 with Keshan Lam”

Welcome back to my tutorial! If you’re new here, I’m Keshan Lam, a creative director at Throttle Concept Studio and an instructor at Brimstone School. This is the first part of a three-part sci-fi tutorial series. Today, we’ll cover the basics of sci-fi concept design, focusing on surfaces, cut lines, flow, and proportions. In the next video, we’ll dive into shaping techniques, and in the final installment, we’ll combine everything we’ve learned to redesign a subject.

Before we dive in, gather some references. Look for concept art from games, movies, and your favorite artists like Jamie Jones and Sparth. Also, find real-world examples that match your sci-fi vision, whether it’s military, industrial, or cyberpunk.

In today’s session, we’ll focus on creating natural cut lines and understanding proportions. Remember, when designing sci-fi, think big, medium, and small. Look for flow in your designs, creating a direction for the viewer’s eye to follow.

Let’s study some references together. Notice the flow and proportions in each design. Even simple shapes like squares can become sci-fi with the right cut lines and angles. Avoid splitting surfaces evenly and aim for asymmetry to keep things visually interesting.

Now, let’s apply what we’ve learned to redesigning a door. Instead of a typical rectangular shape, let’s add some curvature to the bottom and experiment with cut lines to enhance its sci-fi appeal.

By following these principles of proportion, flow, and asymmetry, you can create compelling sci-fi designs that captivate and inspire. Stay tuned for the next video, where we’ll delve deeper into shaping techniques. Until then, happy designing!