Welcome to Lesson 2 of the Beginner’s Guide to Animal Character Design!

Today’s Task: Follow along as we give our four-legged zebra human-like qualities by making it stand, walk, and dance across the page.

Understanding Anthropomorphism

Anthropomorphism is the art of giving animals or inanimate objects human traits, feelings, and behaviours. This technique has a long history in picture books, from Beatrix Potter’s Peter Rabbit to A.A. Milne’s lovable Winnie-the-Pooh and his friends. These characters allow children to connect and relate to the animal characters.

Using anthropomorphism makes it easier for illustrators and storytellers to overcome differences of gender, age, and culture. It allows animals to express emotions and take part in adventures that feel familiar and relatable to young readers. This approach helps create stories that are not only engaging and fun but also more meaningful and lasting.

What You Will Need:

• Paper and a pencil, with the option to use your iPad
• A sheet of tracing paper

Happy Sketching!

Nina 

PS – Share your animal characters with me on Instagram @ninarycroft characters! #drawwithnina!