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Ichiiya Goku

Created a VTuber model illustration from an open-ended concept development process, using a collection of visual references, aesthetic preferences, and client feedback rather than a finalized concept sheet.

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Year

2024

Scope

VTuber Model

Client

Ichiiya Goku

Duration

2 weeks

The project required extensive design exploration, research, and client collaboration to establish a cohesive visual identity while maintaining production readiness for Live2D rigging.

Challenge

Unlike many VTuber projects that begin with a completed character concept, this project started primarily with reference images, design inspirations, and general character preferences.

The challenge was not only creating the final illustration, but also helping develop the character's visual direction throughout production.

Key challenges included:

Interpreting multiple reference sources into a unified design
Researching clothing styles and accessories that matched the desired aesthetic
Balancing new design requests introduced throughout development
Maintaining consistency while the design evolved over time
Establishing a clear visual identity without a finalized concept sheet

Because many design decisions were discovered during production, flexibility and frequent communication were essential throughout the project.

Process

The project was developed through an iterative design workflow centered around regular client feedback.

Based on the client's references and descriptions, I researched potential clothing styles, accessories, and visual motifs before presenting options for approval.

Rather than working from a fixed concept, design decisions were refined continuously through discussion, allowing the character to evolve naturally while remaining aligned with the client's vision.

Throughout production, progress updates were shared regularly to validate design choices, answer questions, and incorporate additional requests, including accessories, ribbons, and interactive toggle concepts.

To ensure future animation flexibility, all artwork was prepared with Live2D rigging requirements in mind, including clean layer separation and organization of movable elements.

Solution

By combining research, visual development, and iterative feedback, the project gradually evolved from a collection of references into a fully realized VTuber design.

Frequent communication allowed new ideas to be incorporated without disrupting the overall direction of the character, while ongoing design reviews ensured visual consistency across all elements.

The final design successfully balanced the client's inspirations with practical considerations for VTuber production and future rigging.

Result

The completed model transformed a broad collection of inspirations into a cohesive VTuber character while preserving the client's personal vision and preferences.

This project strengthened my experience in: