Character Study
The Superkids Reading Program
Optimization, Brand Strategy, Systems Design
CHALLENGE:
Deliver more than 2,000 custom illustrations for the K–2 Superkids Reading Program while maintaining stylistic consistency and depicting 15 recurring characters as they matured across three grade levels. Traditional illustration approaches could not meet the required 18-month timeline.
SOLUTION:
Pitched and led a unique production model by pairing the original character illustrator with an animation studio responsible for developing 3D character models and environments. Supported by teams of animators and a hybrid workflow ensured visual consistency, scalability, and efficient production, enabling the delivery of more than 2,000 illustrations on schedule.
Body shapes and heights were established. Skin tones assigned to each character by ethnicity.
The chosen illustrator created a line-up of all the characters, adjusting for age, clothing, and hair styles across grades while still keeping them recognizable to students.
Before & After
Character profiles were provided to guide the animation studio and their teams.
Original illustration on left. Animation studio 3D model turnarounds in situ on right.
Superkids Action Figures and Bus Bag
Orthographics with PMS color breaks were created for each character.
Family members were created for each Superkids character to support story development throughout the series. Detailed character height charts ensured consistent proportions and relationships across all illustrations and grade levels.
Secondary Characters
