Before starting to draw out potential designs a bit of research is what needed to be done. To begin this process its usually easier to make a spider diagram throwing out ideas and facts that you already know that would be helpful in designing not one but three goblins, for example any characteristics of a stereotypical goblin like the long ears and green complexion, any films, tv series or books that may feature mythological creatures even if its not goblin specific. When this is done I can put on a film like the Spiderwick Chronicles, sit up straight and get to scouring the internet for any references on goblins.
With some pretty interesting information coming to the surface about all the different types of goblins ever mentioned in folklore and mythology I made a list of the ones I thought had the best and most intriguing characteristics, as shown below:
- Kobold
- Trow
- Hobgoblin
- Knocker
- Phooka
- Bogey
- Hogboon
- Tengu
- Kol'Ksu
- Kallikantzaro
After speaking with the client Elusion Rooms I needed to narrow down my choices to just three different goblins, each with a different set of characteristics and environment. Three goblins are needed as you cannot make an exciting challenging puzzle with just one or two, three is the perfect odd number.
Hobgoblins are one of the more well known stereotypical goblins, they are renowned for their shaggy, hairy and tall appearance as well as their fondness for practical jokes that are more sinister than fun. In my sketches I have tried to depict their mischievous side but also portraying a old run down goblin that is more grumpy and wise.
A Kol'Ksu goblin is very dangerous compared to a hobgoblin, residing in the water they are carnivorous and known to eat not just humans but other goblins too. My sketches are trying to depict a gentle luring exterior that is able to fool its prey, I have also used different sea life and sea plants to ensure the connection between the goblin and the sea.
Originating from the Japanese culture the Tengu is a goblin with bird like wings that takes on the form of a humanoid appearance occasionally and often seen wearing Buddhist robes. Being a skilled warrior I made my sketches of this goblin embody a harsh exterior, one that you wouldn't want to mess with.
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