Portfolio 2023 | Liew See Hui

Project 1 : The Search 

There is a unique group of tribal people who have been living in the forest in Borneo since the last century. After a severe drought, the forest is unable to provide the resources for the people’s survival. The protagonist, Imulok, along with her people is now set to discover the land and to search for their future home.

Character Design

Imulok / Age: 28 / Soon-to- be tribe leader

Imulok / Age: 16 / Still in training

The background setting of this project is mainly based on Southeast Asia (SEA), where my home country is located. Indigenous people of SEA often use weaving techniques to create various items like baskets, mats, and hats from palm leaves. 

Hence, I designed a woven leaves belt for Imulok to carry some of her necessities and the daggers to show her readiness for any situation. The piece on her bust is made up of small bones of the animals that she hunted, symbolising the prowess of hunting and her ability to provide for her tribe as she is destined to become the tribe leader.

Side Characters

These are the 3 main side characters who have been helping Imulok throughout her life. Her father, Agong, gives her life and leadership advice; The best herbalist, Nenek Su, provides her with herbs and tonic to boost her strength and energy; The genius cartographer, Uroi, guides her to the right path during their journey. 

Prop Design

The dagger is inspired by the keris which is an Indonesian asymmetrical dagger which the people believed that it has supernatural power and extraordinary ability. Imulok is equipped with a double dagger so that she can attack from different angles and quickly switch between offensive to defensive maneuver.

Creature Design

Skujo / grandson of Skuja

Skuja / grandpa of Skujo

Tortoises are known for their longevity and slow moment so I was inspired to create a giant but gentle beast. The creatures carry heavy stuff across the forest and also accompany the people.

Environment Design

Temple of Nunuk

Nestled in the heart of the forest, the temple stood tall on a massive ancient tree with its branches stretching out to support the temple's base. The tree intertwines with the temple's structure, creating a beautiful and natural structure.

After nailing down the design, I started building a rough 3D base in Blender then bring over to Photoshop to do photo-bashing and paint over

Pokok Nunuk 

This tree was inspired by the Banyan tree which has long and extending branches growing in all directions, even growing downwards becoming the roots.

Temple of Nunuk / Courtyard

It is a spacious area surrounded by the walls of the temple. The people always gather around the Nunuk Tree during festivals and rituals. Some would tie colourful ribbons or pieces of cloth around its branches as a symbol of their prayers and hopes.

Semuada Market

It is a small but busy hub with stalls selling everything the villagers need, from fruit and vegetables to household items. In this scene, the fishmonger held up a large, vibrant orange fish with a look of pride. Clearly caught by himself, he showed it off to all who passed by his stall. 

I was inspired by pasar pagi in Indonesia and Malaysia for this piece.

Mustahak Bridge 

A bridge is made by weaving the roots of living trees and plants together until they form a sturdy structure. It has once been a vital part of people's daily lives, providing a safe and sturdy passage across the river. But now, its roots are brittle and losing their grip on the earth, causing it to start collapsing.

In this scene, Imulok is looking at it sadly, realising that soon they would have to find a new way to cross the river and that a treasured part of their heritage is fading away before her eyes.

Project 2 : Nina

Nina is a project about a sleepy little girl and her dream bedroom. At night, she would venture into the dream world where she explores around and encounters unknown creatures that only exist in this realm. 

Nina's bedroom

The place where Nina plays and ventures into the dream world.

Close-up shots of the assets

Project 3: Studio Ghibli Fan Art

Making some fan art from Studio Ghibli movies is my motivation to start learning some basic animation in Blender.

Kiki's and Jiji's Breakfast 

from Kiki's Delivery Service

Pumpkin and Herring Pie 

from Kiki's Delivery Service. Ever since I watched this movie as a kid, I have always wanted to try this dish soooo I baked one for myself in Blender.

The Perfect Breakfast

from Howl's Moving Castle

Thank you so much for scrolling and viewing my work til the end!  I hope you enjoyed it and have a nice day c: