SPECTRUM VISUAL & CONTEXTUAL RESEARCH
Given the openness of this brief, I decided to make things a lot more easier I’d pick a specific theme or genre so that I could focus down on that specific theme and take it from there. I’ve always wanted to indulge myself in something surrounding horror, so I figured researching into gothic horror would be a good start. The theme of gothic horror could be inspired by anything having to do with the traditional themes and imagery you usually see with this genre. One particular branch of horror I wanted to look at was the classical horror novels that we all know. I figured looking at the book covers of novels such as Frankenstein and Dracula would be a good start. Movies also count too!
Bloodborne has always been a key source of inspiration for me in truth, given its masterful use of themes and aesthetics that isn’t just seen in the concept art but in the game itself. It is an amazing tribute to every gothic horror novel you’ve ever read, whilst still keeping those classical aesthetics alive with a new breathe of fresh air and a dash of Eldritch horror too. Visually Bloodborne will be a key focus when it comes down to me creating my own piece in response to not just the brief itself but the themes that I have set out to take influence from. Looking at and examining the key pieces of concept art and looking at in game screenshots has been really helpful and has helped me identify the key components of the genre as a whole. Example? 1. Lots of mood.
Ayami Kojima is another major inspiration to me, especially when it comes down to this brief overall. Most famously known for painting the covers for the older Castlevania games, Ayami Kojima is a master at her craft. She uses various amounts of oils and inks in order to make her paintings look like something you would see from classical symbolist or gothic artwork. It’s fascinating to see a traditional artist like her reach so much potential. A lot of her artwork is very moody, dark but at the same time has a flare of mystery. It’s amazing to see how she uses character, colour and symbols in her work in order to create dynamic layouts and themes.
Clive Barker is probably someone who you would’ve thought that I’d take huge inspiration from but I do! As someone who has practically grown up reading his strange novels I’ve always been both terrified and inspired by both his writing and his artwork. The horrific yet energetic artwork he creates tells you a lot about the man, about how fluid and colour it is despite the themes and imagery presented. It’s an interesting blend of techniques and showcases an amazing painting style. His paintings will always have that surreal and horror feel to them so I felt that he would be an appropriate practitioner to take inspiration from with this brief.