How I create… a bloody embrace

1 Initial concept

Originally, I imagine the woman as a human rather than a symbol and have the vampire’s darkness forcing her against the side of the picture, to emphasise the futility of her situation. However, I want to push the meaning a bit more and make things a little less literal. Furthermore, it wasn’t obvious that this figure was a vampire.

2 Misplaced attention

In this particular sketch the woman is more symbolic, but is too submissive with no real power – just like an addiction should have. The vampire seems too detached and showing his entire face may bring too much attention to him as a character, and deviate from the main concept of blood lust and addiction.

3 Figure alterations

Using the first sketch, I angle the vampire’s head backwards to show his fangs and also give his mouth a euphoric expression. Limiting the view of his head not only leaves something for the viewer’s imagination, but also keeps the focus on the concept rather than character backstory. Further adjustments to the woman also leave her looking less fearful.