I am finished with the visual redesign of Sana, it is probably the most noticeable because she changed into a different kin.
She was originally sketched with features that leaned much closer to what eventually became the Shuvok kin. At that time, the kin of Nivukti had not yet been fully defined, so her appearance reflected an earlier stage of the world's development.
As the world building became more cohesive, it became clear that Sana belonged among the Tselo instead. Her anatomy has been reworked to reflect the Tselo kin's distinctive features like: taller ears, a lighter face, softer proportions, and a silhouette that better fits the creatures she comes from.
I also made an overhaul on her clothing. Rather than the simpler traveler's outfit of the original concept, she now wears layered robes and heavy winter garments that better tell her role as a rune master. The additional folds, scarves, and fur trim reinforce both Nivukti's harsh climate and the quiet, scholarly presence I wanted her to have.
This redesign wasn't simply about making Sana look better it was about bringing her into harmony with the world itself. As Nivukti expands, its creatures evolve alongside it, and sometimes an older design must give way to one that feels more authentic to the world I build.
Before: a concept searching for its place.
Now: a Tselo rune master, unmistakably at home in the frozen world of Nivukti.
Here are some of the progress photos while I was redesigning the character Sana
I made sure the original character is visible while I was contemplating on what changes should I make. I want to keep that blue bonnet and the fluffy oversized scarf without smothering the new character. That is the challenge. Which one do I keep or change or scrap altogether
I kept the scarf and extended the length up to the hem of the new rune masters robe. Transferred the fluffiness of the scarf to the ears and fur trims on the sleeves. The boots are now leather straps later I am planning to make her wear a pair of gukloo or bone gliders.
For the base colors I copied most from the original image of Sana to make the decision making process quicker.
The color of the pants became the color of the leather straps on her foot I still don't know if I keep the satchel or give her some tools she uses with runes
This could work I know have something that is already a transitioned character. I could further tweak it to further show her as a rune master. Here I just added some shadows and highlights to give depth to the composition and that patch of snow below.
Thank you guys for your comments and questions and suggestions which I take into consideration as I develop and expand this world building project of mine. Do not hesitate to give your thoughts as all inputs from you are important and useful.
Cheers to you all and have a great weekend
