Alphabet Monsters Design Notes p / P
What are Alphabet Monsters?
Alphabet Monsters are original educational materials that feature uppercase and lowercase letters designed as Pokémon-like characters.
By utilizing the shape of the letters as the silhouettes of the monsters,
we have designed them so that children can enjoy getting familiar with the alphabet.
As a design note,
I will be writing about the behind-the-scenes of the production.
* The Alphabet Monsters list (A3 size) is available for free download for home and educational use.
▶ Alphabet Monsters List (A3 size / Free Download)
The compatibility between electricity and silhouettes
The sound of the letter 'P' brings to mind power, pulse, or the onomatopoeia for a sharp, electric sting. Since it seemed to go well with electricity, I decided to make this pair electric-type characters.
Basically, I designed them by straightforwardly utilizing the silhouette of the letters. Motifs related to electricity, such as power generators, utility poles, or steel towers, blended in naturally for both.
p (Piriri)
When designing the lowercase 'p', the most important point is how to handle the 'hole' (counter) part. Should it be the outline of the face, or a large eye? There are many ways to do it, but this time I used it as a 'pattern on the face.' By doing this, I am not overly constrained by the shape of the letter, and the degree of freedom in the design increases significantly.
The coloring is yellow and black, the classic choice for electric types. A slightly sharp, drooping-eyed, grumpy expression is also a key point. With the image of electricity crackling from the small antenna on its head, I named it 'Piriri,' combining the sound of 'P' with the sensation of a tingle.
P (Piripulse)
The uppercase 'P' is a powered-up version of 'p'.
I made the silhouette even bulkier and changed the expression to one that is confident and strong. The antenna has also become more impressive, and its power generation capacity has been significantly enhanced.
The name is 'Piripulse.' By combining it with the word 'pulse' (pulsation/electrical signal), I gave it a sound that is very characteristic of an electric type.
Interpreting as 'patterns' to expand the range of design
By perceiving the hole in the letter as a 'pattern,' it becomes possible to draw complex expressions. 'p' and 'P' have become a pair that successfully incorporates character personality while utilizing the skeleton of the letters.
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