CG character expert Neil Stubbings on the character that's stayed with him
As a director, designer, epic storyteller and skilled technical CGI animator, Neil masterfully blends classic cartoon spirit with 3D modelling to create a classic and timeless result. However, it is carefully considered character design that sets Neil apart from his peers. If he’s not forming on-going global partnerships with brands like Redbreast Whiskey, his characters are being turned into long-standing brand ambassadors, as they have for OnePlus. Here he gives us an insight into one character that has inspired and stayed with him.
An excerpt from this piece was used in Little Black Book's 'The Key to Creating CG Characters That Stay with You' article.
You can read that here.
Allow me to introduce Hukkles, a chubby pink alien who serves not only as an alter ego but also as an inexhaustible source of creative inspiration. For more than a decade, Hukkles has been my steadfast companion, guiding me through countless projects and igniting my fervor for character design and storytelling. It was Hukkles who first sparked this passion within me, marking the beginning of an incredible journey.
In the early days, Hukkles was a purely two-dimensional creation, a simple yet captivating character who marked my initial foray into the world of character animation. This journey began with my first short film, "Lost And Found," which represented my maiden attempt at both story writing and storytelling. Before venturing into this realm, my work was predominantly focused on motion graphics.
"Lost And Found" was met with resounding success, prompting me to further explore Hukkles' universe by creating a prequel titled "First Contact." This new project introduced three-dimensional environments while retaining the charming two-dimensional animated characters. The overwhelming positive feedback I received for Hukkles motivated me to delve deeper into the intricacies of 3D character animation.
Over time, an entire world and intricate backstory blossomed around this beloved character. Hukkles has made appearances in almost all of my passion projects and has even subtly featured in some of my commercial work, often hidden in plain sight as a nod to his enduring influence.
Through Hukkles, I have not only honed my technical skills but also discovered a unique and heartfelt avenue for artistic expression. This charming pink alien remains at the heart of my creative journey, continuing to inspire and evolve with each new project. The world of Hukkles is rich with possibilities, each new story adding depth of character and expanding the universe Hukkles inhabits.
Hukkles' presence in my work has been transformative. From those early days of simple 2D animation to the complex 3D environments and characters I create today, Hukkles has been a constant source of motivation.
The evolution of Hukkles' character and world has mirrored my own growth as an artist. With a non-binary nature, ahead of its time, allowing me to explore themes of identity and acceptance, resonating with audiences in profound ways. This journey with Hukkles has been one of continuous learning and discovery, each project an opportunity to delve deeper into the art of storytelling.
Hukkles is more than just a character; Hukkles is a testament to the power of imagination and the impact of storytelling. The character’s journey has been interwoven with my own, reflecting my growth, challenges, and triumphs. As I look to the future, I am excited to continue exploring new stories and expanding the world of Hukkles, knowing that this chubby pink alien will always be by my side, guiding and inspiring me every step of the way.
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