CATO EMERSON

creature & character artistwriter, director, and filmmaker

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2D & 3D artist

CREAUTURE, CHARACTER,
AND ENVIRONMENT ART

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wriTER

SCREENWRITER

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NARRATIVE PROSE

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DIRECTOR

ART DIRECTOR

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ABOUT

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My name is Cato/Thor! I am a 2D creature/character designer, game & film writer, and aspiring creative director with a passion for bringing stories and legendary adventures to life. I have experience in both film and game development! I specialize in art and writing, carrying a deep passion for combining the two when working on roles! It's my goal to craft memorable narratives and characters that captivate and inspire. I specialize in 2D creature and character art/design, screenwriting, narrative writing, and film and art direction. A large portion of my work is dedicated to creature development and worldbuilding. Worlds collide when I bring creepy and comfy together in my bizzare yet enterprising artwork and writing. I love working with teams to bring worlds and stories to life, and I am driven by a determination to communicate and collaborate to make this happen.

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DO YOU DREAM OF MONSTERS...?

You do? Well, so do I! It's no secret that I have a passion for creatures, horror, fantasy, and sci-fi. Ranging from animalistic creatures on alien worlds to eldritch characters beyond comprehension, I explore it all in the dark realms of my imagination. I have been drawing creatures and monsters of all shapes and sizes since I was a child, accompanying each and every beast with a story to tell, whether that be a short story or a whole book. Now, I continue to tell stories of monstrous propotions!It's my goal to craft memorable narratives and characters that captivate and inspire. I specialize in 2D creature and character art/design, screenwriting, narrative writing, and film and art direction. A large portion of my work is dedicated to creature development and worldbuilding. Worlds collide when I bring creepy and comfy together in my bizzare yet enterprising artwork and writing. I love working with teams to bring worlds and stories to life, and I am driven by a determination to communicate and collaborate to make this happen. With an abundance of skills under my sleeve and a passion to collaborate, I ensure that these skills are put to work, ensuring a progressive, fun, and engaging experience when working on projects.I am currently a director and 2D creature & character artist at Ludoraptor Studio.When I’m not working, I love to draw my personal characters, watch movies (more like study them!), and read. I also enjoy roleplaying with my friends. Lastly, I'm a huge metalhead that loves going to concerts!

C O N T A C T

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Film

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Cato has four years of ongoing directing education and experience. Cato began studying at Eastern Florida State College. Now she is continuing her studies at the University of Central Florida. As a director, it is Cato's goal to be proactive, productve, and effecient in bringing a film or story to life. Communication and collaboration is a very important part of direction to Cato. She has a deep understanding of the process of film production.

BEDGUY
Director, writer, cinematography.The monster under the bed has a lot to say, and quite a bad attitude too.

SONG OF THE MOON
Director, writer, actor.A werewolf student stranded on campus attempts to suppress his true nature under a full moon. With the help of an online friend, he tries his best to stay tethered to his humanity.

THE INTRUDER
Director, writer, cinematography.A humorous yet ominous take on a slasher scene, shot in two days.

MY LAST BREATH
Director, writer, cinematography.A person undergoing a zombification makes a trek to their final resting place.

Rosetta
Director, writer, art.A short picture music video about Thistle and their dilemma.

C O N T A C T

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Writer / EXAMPLES & EXPERIENCE

I have been writing for as long as I can remember. I've always had an immense imagination, one where my art simply could not exist without a story to accompany it. Writing and art go hand in hand when it comes to my creative works.When it comes to my writing process, I spend a lot of time planning with outlines and sketches. I do not often follow chronological order when crafting my narratives, one of my favorite methods is to write from end to beginning. When I know the ending of my story, I can begin to piece together the aspects of the narrative that lead to a conclusion. I want to spend time with my characters and truly delve into their minds and how the world around them impacts their behavior. The world is also a character in a sense. The world and characters ebb and flow like tides, working in unison to create something truly stellar.

Screenwriting

Scripts for film. A mix between personal and class work.

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Narrative Prose

Short stories that are either standalone or part of a larger anthology/project. These are often personal stories.

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The cool afternoon air was calming on the doctor's face, fresh, sharp, and much needed after a long day in the stale environment of his lab. The doctor inhaled slowly, taking in that breath until his lungs couldn’t hold any more. He then exhaled, opening his eyes to see his kitchen. Their kitchen was small and homey, sporting nothing more than a modest thrifted table in the center, a countertop nearby that extended just a little too far and containing a stove that was just a little too small. He always hated that imperfection; not so much in that moment.

Character Profiles

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Short profiles for characters including basic stats, info, and general overview of the character and their story.Writing character profiles is an essential step to my writing workflow. Having profiles of my characters allows me to maintain a consistency when
writing them. Not only that, I can get to know my character a little better before I begin writing their story, wether that be narrative prose or a script.

C O N T A C T

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DEVOURER OF DEATH
A Cosmic Horror Short StoryA dying black hole drifts through the void of space and encounters the fear of demise.

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A real body of winding tails tipped with skeletal heads and slithering tongues. The tails billowed from a purple and black creature, perhaps draconic in nature. Upon its shoulders sat two terrible maws with eyes that burned into the Sphere.Never before had it witnessed something like this. No mortal, no cosmic. The Black Sphere remained frozen in place as it questioned the dragon, “Who… Who are you?”“I am hungry.” The dragon’s head whipped to face the Sphere. Her voice was deep and angelic.
The dragon understood it.The Black Sphere murmured, “What do you hunger for?”Now it could see a gaping maw on the belly of the beast. What was presumably its head, also skeletal in nature, inched closer to the Sphere. Silence suffocated them as the dragon closed the distance between them. A heaviness weighed on the Sphere’s conscience, a fuzzy and unwelcoming sensation of dread. A terrible epiphany as the toothy maw of what it could only assume to be a God extending to it. “I hunger for death,” the dragon-god bellowed. “You are already in it.”

THE EKANOX: SICKNESS OF GOD
Short storyAn apocalyptic plague tests the faith of a devoted pastor.

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Yesterday, amidst the red and rot, I held my last sermon. Earlier that day we had gathered to discuss the great change, the impending Death that had overtaken our world. So, that was what they had believed it was. I could understand why they believed it to be the end. Like God had decided that now it was our time, that the rapture of our souls had now finally come. Though, I knew it was not God nor was it his will. God did not command a man to devour a fellow man. God did not change these men into monsters. God did not create monsters.

THE EKANOX: Myriad Temple
Multi-chapter Short StoryThistle recalls their past in a terrifying nightmare...

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• More on "The Ekanox"

In the heart of Caeruleum, not far from the Blood Wall, the late evening was still aside from the few animals that flew past towering skyscrapers and people that wandered the streets. The city around them was void of the sound of machinery and music. This city was unlike the ones before it; rather, it was enveloped in the sound of nature. Nightlife such as insects and birds sung into the starry sky. This apartment building in particular was the most silent, for it was predominantly uninhabited aside from a few people on the lower levels. Pani lived on the highest floor.From scattered candles, arrays of warm colors painted the apartment. These rooms were once part of what would have been a storage room of some kind, now converted to a comfortable living space for two. In the beginning, Thistle never truly had a place to call home. They lived between places; the hunter base and Pani’s apartment. Now, her apartment had become something of a home to them.Thistle was curled up in a nest of pillows and blankets that they had strung together some few hours ago. When they had once been full of energy, the day ran them dry, and they now laid tiredly in their bed-nest. Pani, meanwhile, was drawing nearby, focused on detailing the figure she was drawing. Thistle tried to pay attention, but as exhaustion settled in, they had quietly begun to reminisce on their thoughts. This happened almost every night, because Thistle knew that one way or another, with sleep came dreams.Their dreams, recallings of old memories, only lasted for the time they endured them. Thistle had come to realize that these are not dreams: they were nightmares. There was one thing that they remembered, despite that. Thistle knew that when they slept, their mind did not drift into the same state as others did. Rather, their entire being shifted to a place no man nor monster belonged. Through the festering anguish, they remembered the strange place they ended up after every memory. It was a place of red; a realm that didn’t feel quite real, but not fake either.

PALE SKIN
Short storySometime in the future, experimental scientists have pursued biological advancements like no other. Dr. Orson Pierre, a kind and happy family man, had developed a new strain of cells. Though, the project falls far out of his hands, leading to a catastrophe of titanic heights. In the process, Pierre loses himself and more than he could have ever imagined. Now, a massive creature rampages through the countryside in search of something precious.

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The cool afternoon air was calming on the doctor's face, fresh, sharp, and much needed after a long day in the stale environment of his lab. The doctor inhaled slowly, taking in that breath until his lungs couldn’t hold any more. He then exhaled, opening his eyes to see his kitchen. Their kitchen was small and homey, sporting nothing more than a modest thrifted table in the center, a countertop nearby that extended just a little too far and containing a stove that was just a little too small. He always hated that imperfection; not so much in that moment.From behind he heard light footsteps bounding towards him. The doctor turned to see his smiling daughter. Mira had light auburn hair, so light it could almost pass as brown, long enough it reached her knees. She was the spitting image of her mother. The doctor smiled back.She wrapped one of her arms around her father’s shoulder and cupped her hand over his ear. For reasons unbeknownst to him, Mira preferred to whisper to him rather than talk when it came to telling him something important. This time, however, something was different. Instead of whispering, she said nothing.The doctor squinted. Still, Mira said nothing. He shifted his gaze and realized Mira was staring at something next to him. When he averted his attention to look in the same direction, the kitchen was vacant. He was about to speak, when suddenly both of Mira’s hands grabbed either side of his face and she shrieked two words.“COME BACK.”The kitchen was gone.For a short while, there was nothing but darkness and that bitter smell.Then came a flash of light and a more unfamiliar sight became visible.

BLADE IN THE CITY: Bitter Medicine (Chapter 1)
Multi-chapter Short story
ExcerptThey both knew this would be a dangerous decision... Or was it? Determined to prove Obasi wrong, Noctis, a pit fighter with a meek survival instinct, takes the fight anyway, harboring dire results.

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This is it.Noctis laughed. The Marauder snarled out, but only flecks of electricity glittered from his maw now. A hideous metallic screech began to fill the air, followed by a petrified wail. Noctis began pulling his once indestructible metal jaw apart, slowly but steadily. The further she pulled, the louder the sound of breaking metal became. The joint that once held his skull together was faltering, the hinges began to snap the farther she meticulously ripped him apart.She pushed back against her opponent, using the momentum to raise herself to her feet. As she did so, she heard a crack. The Marauder’s neck had snapped under the weight, yet somehow they still glared into Noctis’s eyes.Guess his brain isn’t connected to his spine. She momentarily thought, but she had no time to ponder the logistics of this.
Noctis yelled in the face of the Marauder and with the last of her strength. In a terrorizing caterwaul of metal, Noctis separated the Marauder’s maxilla. It tore effortlessly from his head in a cluster of meaty gore and electric sparks, blood splashed in a wave from his throat, gushing onto the ground. Noctis was just a few inches from the vermilion bath. The crowd cheered. This was the bloodbath that the Iron Bruiser promised them. The Marauder fell back into the red dirt, which flew up into the air. Satisfied patrons went wild. Noctis caught her breath, a cocky smile pulling at her lips. It wasn’t everyday that she could put on a show that good. It was gonna be hard to top this fight. Meanwhile the Marauder was thrashing around pathetically, trying to find where his lower jaw had fallen. He attempted to curse out Noctis, but she had evidently tore his artificial vocal box from his larynx, which laid attached to a string of slaughter nearby.The Marauder’s crimson gaze locked onto Noctis, he pathetically tried to stand, but collapsed each time.

C O N T A C T

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SOJOURN
Feature Spec ScriptA young woman recieves concerning texts from her mother and undergoes a slow, bizzarre transformation.

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SCALES OF SECLUSION
Short Spec ScriptA character artist finds escapsim during a pandemic.

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FLESH AND FUME
Short ScriptTwo real estate photographers arrive to Gorel Grove, the location of notorious murders and home to a legendary creature, which they soon come face to face with.

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BOREAL ONE
Short ScriptAfter the death of his granddaughter, a lonesome elder turns to higher places in his final moments. Once and for all, he faces something he had always feared.

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C O N T A C T

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Thistle Khousuuh

Thistle is the primary protagonist of The Ekanox. More information on The Ekanox can be viewed HERE.

Thistle is the last of a legendary race known as the dragons and the first of his kind of draconic beings. Throughout the history of the Ekanoxian extinction, they were also referred to as “half-beasts”. Dragons are humans born from an infected mother, rather than becoming infected themselves, they become trapped in limbo between humanity and zombification. Unfortunately, the birthrate for dragons is low to nonexistent, as is their survival. Thistle is the first half-beast in Ekanoxian history that was born to two draconic parents, rather than through infection, Thistle was born naturally.This makes for a connection to the Ekanox itself. Most dragons gradually transform into a unique, draconic form of beast due to this eldritch connection, but Thistle has grown resistant to it due to being conscious of his own instincts and neglectful of the Ekanox’s influence, and has lived all life that no dragon has before. Because Thistle is the first fully-blooded dragon, he is the first dragon to have an almost symbiotic relationship with the Ekanox. Though, the Ekanox seems to benefit more from this connection, acting as as a curious tormentor of Thistle. Thistle tolerates the elder god, at the very least.Thistle has many names within the Blood Wall Society. Some know him as the “Dragon of Caeruleum”, in legends written by the Temple of the Ekanox, he is known as the “Thunder Dragon ''. In legends written upon old, coffee stained paper made from old trees and the hide of the infected, he is described as a mighty beast capable of summoning storms Earth has not known for over a thousand years, the ultimate hunter, the end of the apocalypse.. The truth is, Thistle is much more light hearted than the tales say. A lot more, actually. Thistle is incredibly upbeat, friendly, and confident dragon. It’s hard to sway Thistle once he’s got his mind set to a specific goal or idea. He has a very bright demeanor and it’s rare to see him without even the slightest grin on his face. Aside from his scales and immense height of almost 8”0, his shining personality and impulsive nature is his most recognizable feat.

Thistle sports a charming yet enthusiastic personality, many say that he “lights up” every room he walks in— for better or for worse. His bombastic and eccentric personality can often be both infectious yet sometimes overbearing. Thistle tries his best to be aware of this, but he often can’t help it. Thistle is very upbeat and energetic, he's determined to get things done, carrying a stern determination and Thistle is additionally loyal to his actions and morality. If Thistle says he’s going to do something, you best bet he is. He’s very observant and aware of his surroundings... usually.Sometimes he can get carried away with whatever task may be at hand, especially if it’s something he’s excited about like combat. Thistle tries not to use his beast-nature while working, relying on his human abilities over the inhuman. Thistle can be obnoxious at times with his cheery attitude, but don’t let that fool you. He can be a formidable figure when he needs to be, though he will always prefer kindness over intimidation.While he may be very positive and upbeat, his lightheartedness comes with a price. Thistle is extremely impulsive and tends to be ignorant to others advice. He is very set on wanting to do things his way and isn't all that open to input from others, often displaying agitation when an idea of his is turned down. Despite how dangerous or how lacking in thought an idea of his may have, he will act upon it with little rationalization. This has gotten him into trouble countless times.One particular incident that was misleading was the story behind a particular scar on his arm. By now, it's since faded in comparison to his other scars, but he still tells the false tale of it when he can. He has a tendency to bite himself to cope with a festering need for fresh blood and meat. Sometimes it works, more often than not it leaves him feeling wounded both emotionally and physically, though he will never let anyone know that. Being a dragon, Thistle is immune to the Pestilence virus, meaning he can be bit without consequence. Thistle used this to his advantage when Arden had questioned what happened to his arm. He laughed and told her, "Know that hunt from earlier? Just got this from a nasty beast out there. Took me by surprise and snagged me by the arm! Ain't that something?"He spoke with confidence, and as the years passed, he found new ways to enhance the story- to make up more stories. Nobody had to know that bite had been inflicted upon him by himself. Thistle, overall, is a kind, gentle soul. He never strays from a fight and stays determined and to a goal, no matter what. He also tends to be the spirit of his hunting party, leading them to battle with high hopes and lifted spirits._________Thistle is very determined and loyal to his actions. If Thistle says he’s going to do something, you best bet he is. He’s very observant and aware of his surroundings.. usually. Sometimes he can get carried away with whatever task may be at hand, especially if it’s something he’s excited about like combat. Thistle loves to be in the field, hunting the infected known as “beasts”. Being the leader of a Hunter Division known as the “Western Hunters”, it’s his job to maintain the beast population outside of the wall and ensure that the Society is safe from the dead.He also enjoys spending time with his exannor, Sthastraon, especially on joy rides at sunset. He always rambles about how beautiful the sunset is over the city smog and high above the clouds, unfortunately, he’s usually more enthusiastic about flying for fun than the other hunters are. Thistle is especially fond of baking goods such as cakes, cookies, and brownies. As a kid he used to sneak out and get into a lot of trouble, so his father took to teaching him how to bake as a means of getting him to stay put. Of course, that didn’t work, but hey, at least he formed a passionate hobby. Thistle also has an interest in weaponry such as swords and axes, he takes pride in the weapon he forged himself from the jaw of the giant he killed during his early days as a hunter leader.

Obasi Adebowale

Thistle is the primary protagonist of Blade in the City. More information on Blade in the City can be viewed HERE.

Obasi is a stoic silverback with more weight on her shoulders than she’ll ever admit. As the leader of the revered Phantom organization- a vigilante group and mafia- this leaves her with the responsibility of overseeing ongoing criminal and underground activity in the city of Hadera. She has been the leader of the Phantoms for over 25 years, nearing 30 soon. This has earned her the title as the "King of Haderia", one that she seized from her father, Dubaku. She is respected by many, but not all. Obasi could care less about this, as her goal is to ultimately maintain peace within the city. She strives to provide for those in need, including the lower class and others who have been let down by the higher government. Obasi is seen as a protector of sorts because of this, as she puts a large effort into keeping military activity to a minimum in the city and ensures that resources are distributed evenly- or at least as much as possible. There is only so much that Obasi can do, but it is wise to never doubt her determination.Aside from her work as a kingpin, Obasi is a mother to Mitsue Adebowale and had a hand in helping raise a few other younger Phantoms. In general, she's a maternal figure to the younger members of her syndicate, one of which she's taken under her wing. Despite being stoic and sometimes cold, Obasi is incredibly caring to her family and friends. She tries to spend as much time as she possibly can with her loved ones, and she will always make time for them if she is able. Obasi will always put her family first in dire situations, and she wants only the best for them. She encourages them to seek lives outside of the criminal underground and supports them in this. Obasi herself has also sought a(n attempt at a) career far from criminal work. From a young age she had an interest in music, and this later led her to occasionally perform at adult clubs or small events under the artist name of "Amethyst Blood". She doesn't do it as often as she once used to...

Obasi is rather solitary and often appears very intimidating. This, however, does not reflect who she truly is. Obasi can't really help how imposing she is in terms of looks and tone... She is generally quiet and blunt in her speech and demeanor. Obasi is very protective over the innocent and she is determined to do whatever she can to help others and aid them in a comfortable life. As the leader of a trusted vigilante group that provides support and protection in Haderia, Obasi will do whatever it takes to maintain this peace. However, she will not indulge in violence if she doesn’t have to. Obasi prefers peaceful resolutions to settle disputes. Sometimes that is easier said than done. In truth, Obasi is a very soft and friendly animan. She prefers to be as approachable as possible and doesn't want to be perceived as someone daunting or intimidating to talk to. Obasi does the best she can to appear more welcoming to others.Obasi’s ideology is often viewed hypocritically, as she tends not to follow her own word. That isn’t a habit she tries to stand closely by, however. She does remain true to her own values and beliefs when dealing with situations outside of her own mental health. Obasi believes that if something is to be done, it must not be done in a way that means spilling blood. In some cases, when violence is necessary, there may be progress. She will always advocate for a resolution where negotiation can be made. In addition, Obasi believes that loyalty and honesty are strong values to maintain— even if she herself struggles to be honest. Obasi tends to have a very open mind when approaching conflicts, she is not one to generalize or jump to conclusions- That is, assuming she's in a sound state of mind. Obasi has a strong empathy towards others, even if she does not show it through her demeanor or words, her actions speak for her. Obasi is often viewed as a wise and understanding individual, even when she neglects her own self care and confidence. She's always valued the wellbeing of others first, because as the "King", she believes it to be her responsibility... and, she can't help but care more than she'll ever express.

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Artist Experience

I am an entirely self-taught 2D, primarily digital artist! I have only taken one college-level art class, but decided that I work better learning hands on outside of the classroom. It's out in the world and alongside fellow artists that I've learned and honed my skills! I've had over a decade of experience in 2D character and creature design, all starting from a childhood passion of the strange monsters that lurk in my mind. Ultimately, I strive to bring rich visuals and immersive art to accompany striking worlds and narratives... Take a look, delve into my curious creatures, if you dare! I specialize in unique fantasy and creature designs. I the boundaries of fiction and reality with my designs. With every narrative I create, I am capable capable of crafting illustrations, concepts, and designs to both others' and my own ideas.

First and foremost, I am a creature & character designer. I hone my skills from years of dedicated interest and personal study. While I have not taken any professional classes for this subject, I have invested years of personal research into developing my skills and experimenting with new concepts. With an avant-garde understanding of creating new worlds, characters, and concepts, I apply this way of thinking to every new design that I create.When creating creature & character designs, I think about functionality and contextual importance. How does this character exist in the narrative? Is it relevant? What is this creature capable of? And most importantly: where does it come from and why? What does it feel... if anything at all. Every character has it's story, and I strive to tell that story not only through writing, but design as well. Whether that be a scar, a marking, an item of clothing, or a weaponry, my creature designs often have stories to tell through appearance alone.

Tools and Program Experience

- Clip Studio Paint
- Adobe Photoshop
- Nomad Sculpt
- Procreate

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Pierre Rampage

An original piece featuring "Pierre", a creature character from my
narrative project "PALE SKIN". In this climatic scene, Pierre destroys a city in his newfound,
monstrous form.

Cannibah, the Gourmandizer of Totality

Cannibah, an original creature from an unnamed project, indulges in a cosmic snack.

Misc Ilustration

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Design Workflow

I begin with a basic sketch of the creature's shapes. By breaking down the creature's shape language and flow, I can get a better idea of how the detailed sketch will look. This stage is where I will make the most revisions, especially when it comes to figuring out how to use shapes and body language as a way to exude a specific "feel" for the creature.

Here are some more examples of sketches I do whilst in this shape-exploration phase.

Then, after the shapes and body language have been approved, I begin the detailed sketch. This phase is where I flesh out a majority of the design, including key features, distinctive attributes, and a step closer to a final design. This stage is where I experiment the most, figuring out what works and what doesn't. Sometimes I nail it on the first try, though! Every creature is different, and although my workflow is generally the same for all of them, I may spend more time with some more than others.

After completing the detailed sketch, I will lay out the colors for the creature. I often go through multiple iterations of color ideas, utilizing different hues or redrawing entire patterns and textures. I prioritize a balance between color and texture during this phase, something that makes the creature more comprehensible visually. I will also create a silhouette in this stage to present a size comparison and narrow down shape language.

The last step in my workflow includes rendering and a basic background. This allows me to form a stronger vision in what the creature will look like in an environment and with some more three-dimensional shading. Sometimes I may go an extra step further and fully illustrate my concepts, but I typically aim to keep them visually simple as these concepts are not intended to be the final product- though, depending on client feedback, they somtimes will be! All in all, my creature design workflow is incredibly flexible, meaning that each and every creature (and character) that I create is completely unique to each project.

C O N T A C T

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Design Workflow

I begin with a basic sketch of the creature's shapes. By breaking down the creature's shape language and flow, I can get a better idea of how the detailed sketch will look. This stage is where I will make the most revisions, especially when it comes to figuring out how to use shapes and body language as a way to exude a specific "feel" for the creature.

Here are some more examples of sketches I do whilst in this shape-exploration phase.

Then, after the shapes and body language have been approved, I begin the detailed sketch. This phase is where I flesh out a majority of the design, including key features, distinctive attributes, and a step closer to a final design. This stage is where I experiment the most, figuring out what works and what doesn't. Sometimes I nail it on the first try, though! Every creature is different, and although my workflow is generally the same for all of them, I may spend more time with some more than others.

After completing the detailed sketch, I will lay out the colors for the creature. I often go through multiple iterations of color ideas, utilizing different hues or redrawing entire patterns and textures. I prioritize a balance between color and texture during this phase, something that makes the creature more comprehensible visually. I will also create a silhouette in this stage to present a size comparison and narrow down shape language.

The last step in my workflow includes rendering and a basic background. This allows me to form a stronger vision in what the creature will look like in an environment and with some more three-dimensional shading. Sometimes I may go an extra step further and fully illustrate my concepts, but I typically aim to keep them visually simple as these concepts are not intended to be the final product- though, depending on client feedback, they somtimes will be! All in all, my creature design workflow is incredibly flexible, meaning that each and every creature (and character) that I create is completely unique to each project.

C O N T A C T

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BLADE IN THE CITY

WHAT IS BLADE IN THE CITY?

Blade in the City is a sci-fi thriller and crime drama worldbuilding project that takes place over tenthousand years in the future after humanity's extinction. In this future Earth, creatures derived from man-made bioweapons known as "animans" rule the world. Following in the ruins of humanity, animans have rebuilt the Earth and reestablished new countries, territories, and cities. In addition, they exist with advanced technology and artificial intelligence.This story takes place in a country known as Eaderix. Here lies the largest animan city in the world: Haderia. Haderia was once the capital of the state of Kaiurrus, though after an uprising, the government was forced out of the city and settled a new capital further up north. In the midst of that uprising, the Phantoms acted as a vigilante group that most rebels were affiliated with. The Phantoms then took control of what was left behind by governing bodies and since then has maintained economic stability in Haderia through underground activities with allied groups around and outside of Kaiurrus.To this day, Haderia continues to thrive under the eye of the Phantoms and their current leader, Obasi Adebowale, who is the face and the troubled protagonist of Blade in the City.Blade in the City is another personal project of mine. Much like The Ekanox, I've been practicing my worldbuilding and narrative-building skills to enhance this world. In addition, this is a pure passion project.Currently, I am in the process of writing a full length book within this world.

BOOK 1 SYNOPSIS

(NOTE: This is a working synopsis. Subject to change.)After going extinct in 3101, humanity is nothing more than an echo. In the wake of man, a new race– the animans, beast-like anthropomorphic creatures– now rule a new Earth with advanced biomachinery and artificial intelligence. The year is 10089. New world governments formed in the ashes of what came before threaten life as all animans know it. In the high-tech city of Haderia, gorilla animan Obasi Adebowale leads the criminal vigilante group known as the “Phantoms”. Born from a century-old legacy, Obasi is both a parent and a revered leader attempting to juggle her familial life with her work as a crime lord.Day by day, her work and her past weighs on her. As she pulls away from the ones she loves, danger looms over Haderia.A handful of mysterious disappearances throughout the districts catch Obasi and the Phantoms’ attention. An old rival, another gorilla named Faraji, and his cultish group rear their heads once more. Life in Haderia as they know it is threatened, animans become enthralled by Faraji’s manipulative beliefs to embrace the end days. Obasi must face herself and her past if she is to face Faraji. Her autonomy is questioned and must brave everything that she has neglected. If Obasi does not brave the face of change, then everything that she has fought for will be lost.

MORE INFORMATION

WHERE & WHEN DOES BITC TAKE PLACE?

The year is 10089, millions of years after the extinction of humanity. Blade in the City takes place in the city of Haderia.Haderia is an immense megalopolis that has seemingly consumed the state of Kaiurrus and continues to expand. It is commonly argued that Haderia itself is a state, however, there is no geographical confirmation of this and Haderia is still widely accepted as a city. Haderia was once the capital of Kaiurrus, though after an uprising in 9986, the government was forced out of the city and settled a new capital further up north. In the midst of that uprising, the Phantoms led by an Adebowale, acted as a vigilante group that most rebels were affiliated with. The Phantoms then took control of what was left behind by governing bodies and since then has maintained economic stability in Haderia through underground activities with allied groups around and outside of Kaiurrus. To this day, Haderia continues to thrive under the eye of the Phantoms and their current leader, Obasi Adebowale, alongside their allies led by Sunila Arkaans, the Azure.Though the Phantoms and Azure are the primary protectors of Haderia, a government presence remains scattered in outposts on the outskirts of Kaiurrus. These outposts act as military surveillance more than anything, and often function independently of the Phantoms. Because of their presence in Haderia, controversy has arisen that the Phantoms are in league with the Northern military. This is no more than talk, however. The Phantoms and Azure remain vigilant in their resistance against government power.

WHAT ARE ANIMANS?

The animans are man-made, anthropomorphic beasts that resemble old world, twenty-first century animals. It should be noted that all that remains of the world prior to humanity’s extinction are the animans, all other ecological niches have been filled by large reptilian species (there are no animan variants of these species). Animans were originally created from a strand of artificial hominid genetics known as “base variant DNA” and the spliced genes of a multitude of mammal and reptile species, the animans resemble humans within their bodily anatomy, however, they tend to sport more animalistic features more predominately. Despite having originally been created as biological weapons the animans have since readopted human technology and society.Humanity has been extinct for over ten thousand years, leaving animans around the world to pick up where they had left off, and have since adapted more advanced technological feats than humanity ever did. This includes complex quantum computing, cyberization, advanced artificial intelligence, and even space travel. However, this has unfortunately led to an oppressive political and class divide, a folly that a now ancient humanity has seemed to pass on to their lab-made creations.SETTING
The world of Blade in the City is one that is geographically diverse, however, the story itself focuses on the megalopolis of Haderia, located in the country of Eaderix. Most of what is entailed in this information pertains to animans that live within Haderia, as I have not invested much time or focus on developing the world outside of it. I have plans to do so, but for the sake of simplicity, I don’t focus on animans outside of Haderia.However, it is safe to make the assumption that the world around them functions similarly to Haderia in terms of technological advancement and general societal structure. Ultimately Haderia stands out because of its detachment from the Unified Government that rules Eaderix and functions similarly to a pseudo-socialist society that directly opposes a destructive capitalist government purely, not through violence, but through existence.ANIMAN VARIANTS
To put it bluntly, any other animal outside of these variants DO NOT EXIST. The variants listed below are existing variants.✦ Mammalian (Most common and diverse)
✦ Reptilian (Mostly uncommon and limited to four variants and one sub-variant)
✦ Avian (Sub-variant of Reptilian)
✦ Amphibian (Very uncommon but more common in Haderia)MAMMALIAN
✦Primates
✦Ungulates (all hoofed mammals)
✦ Cetaceans (VERY RARE)
✦ Canids
✦ Felines
✦ Any mammal, honestly!REPTILLIAN
Limited to:
✦ Crocodilians
✦ Squamata
✦ Serpentes
✦ TestudinesAVIAN
Limited to:
✦ Any Aves family/species, reallyAMPHIBIAN
Limited to:
✦ Anura
✦ CaudataWHAT ARE VARIANTS AND SUB-VARIANTS?Variants function similarly to the process of selective breeding. Specific phenotypic traits from different species of animans are integrated into base variant DNA, which results in the animan variants. Base variant DNA is a stabilized strain of artificial genetic, self-replicating material derived from human stem and genetic cells. Base variant DNA made from atomic materials to stabilize base variant DNA. There are gaps in base variant thymines allowing for animal phenotypes and thymines to fill the missing gaps. New “brands” of standalone synthetic material were also developed worldwide to aid in constructing variants. Now, the animans have proved to be a marvel of humanity’s old science, becoming a self-sustaining “species”. Scientifically, animans cannot be described as a species or a breed, though many animans are content with the terminology as a “race” or “species”.Sub-variants are animans that derived from a specific phenotype of family or genus. This means that, for example, animal relatives within the same group such as, for example: crocodilians and birds, are both variants derived from the reptilian phenotype, but maintain their own unique set of synthetic material and thymine.However, due to unresolved intricacies, crossbreeding between animans, or, hybridization is difficult to near impossible. Animans with different thymine and synthetic material cannot hybridize. Base variant DNA is typically only stable with two phenotypes as well, the introduction of more than one phenotype (ex. A mammal x reptilian, or two different species of mammals) would cause intense genetic mutations. Hybrid animans do exist, but most do not live for longer than a few months. The longest recorded living hybrid was a lion-tiger hybrid that lived for three years.

C O N T A C T

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THE EKANOX
ORIGINAL WORLDBUILDING PROJECT

The Ekanox is a horror world building and narrative anthology project that takes place over six thousand years in the future after a world changing apocalypse has destroyed the Earth, turning it into a desolate wasteland.Over a millenia after the Ekanox made contact with Earth and released its pestilence upon the planet, Earth has succumbed to a calamity. The infected, known as beasts, roam the surface in a northern land now known as Akuria. What has come of the rest of the world remains a mystery... as far as the Akurians know, they're the last of humanity. The Akurians live hidden away behind a massive wall known as the "Blood Wall", their only protection against the apocalyptic wasteland. Humans known as "hunters" are responsible for hunting and harvesting the beasts for parts and protecting the Blood Wall Society.With limited technological advances, Akuria's population has been forced to adapt to a terraformed world of flesh and decay. Now ruled by Beasts, Earth is merely a husk of what it once was. The last of humanity finds itself safely hidden away behind a massive wall known as the "Blood Wall", their only protection against the apocalyptic wasteland.The Ekanox is an entirely personal worldbuilding project created from pure passion for creating a world and crafting a compelling narrative within it. Currently, it is my goal to publish an anthology book consisting of tales within this world and from there, maybe expand the horizons of The Ekanox into the realm of game and film.

"MAIN" NARRATIVE

The Prophecy of Hinaarah, a prophecy written by revered knowledge keepers, predicts the hibernation cycles of the Ekanox, keeping the Akurians in anticipation of its next awakening. The Prophecy states that on the Ekanox’s thirty first awakening, the Earth would “splinter” and decay, bringing forth the end of all life.Hunter Thistle Khousuuh was born and raised in this dying world. After escaping his previous life beneath the eye of his family's cult, he pursued a life as a beast hunter and strives to understand the new, reborn earn. Thistle is a confident and upbeat soul, determined to protect remnants of humanity and make a life in Akuria.When the Ekanox awakens after its hibernation according to the Prophecy’s tellings, Thistle sets out with his group to find and destroy the deity once and for all before it makes landfall in Akuria. Thistle is determined to succeed where his father failed and change the fate of the world.Alongside his allies, Thistle will uncover the truth of the prophecy and its origins while they journey through a vast eldritch wasteland. But not all people are allies. Enemies will be made, secrets will be uncovered and bonds will be broken, pushing Thistle to doubt if he has what it takes to save humanity... and himself.

ART GALLERY

C O N T A C T

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TETHIA ASUNDER

• PLAY GAME HERE!

I was the art director & lead character artist of this project, and responsible for the initial creation of the world of Tethia, creating it's species and characters, and I was also drew most of the sprites for in-game NPCs, UI design, and cutscenes. I love all things dinosaur, monsters, dragons, and horror! I have learned how to work with a remote team. I learned new teamwork and communication skills. I also learned how to direct and collaborate artists to bring a world and its characters to life. This project and the AMAZING Ludoraptor team has given me experience that I will be carrying with me moving forward with my career in both game and film!

CHARACTER DESIGN

CHARACTER SPRITES

CUTSCENES

SKETCHES

C O N T A C T

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PROJECT MCMURDO (UNOFFICIAL TITLE)

• GAME COMING 2026-2027!

I was the art director & lead character artist of this project, and responsible for the initial creation of the world of Tyracaun-13. More details coming soon, as this is an ongoing project! At the very least, I wanted to display some of the work I've done as we work on our game.

LEAD ARTIST

2D Art and Concepts I created for our game!

CREATURE DESIGN

IN-GAME JOURNAL ART

ENVIRONMENT

SKETCHES & CONCEPTS

C O N T A C T

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