MORE BLACK SUPERHEROES: Maz
Main Character from upcoming short film
Character
In the film, Maz is an aspiring artist who comes to the realization that modern Black representation in media is lacking at best. Using past interpretations as well as his peer’s inputs, Maz creates his version of a Black superhero.
Inspiration
Maz took major inspiration from my friend, fashion designer, and model Mazen Alsafi, who also stars as Maz within the film. Black politics, representation, and history are the foundations of Mazen’s work and the backbone of the film.
Maz Noir Concept
Maz Blaxploitation Concept
Maz Hero Concept
PICKPOCKET:
Mia
Main character from upcoming animated series
character
Mia is a rebellious teenager from a dystopian near future where gambling rules all aspects of life. She has been able to scam the system so far, but when an unexpected companion destroys her spot in the status quo, Mia must reconsider what it actually means to be revolutionary.
inspiration
Mia’s look is largely inspired by the AfroPunk movement seen in characters such as Hobie Brown from “Across the Spiderverse.” I also took some notes such as the large chunky shoes and leg warmers from “aliyah core” which is a new fashion trend among Black women.
PICKPOCKET: Indusa
Deuteragonist from upcoming animated series
character
Indusa is a disowned member from one of the Founding Families. Since she is marked, she does not have any powers which is seen as a curse from God among the upper class families. Now having to fend for herself, Indusa becomes the current Pickpocket and runs into Mia while she learns how to survive on the streets.
Inspiration
I wanted Indusa to tease her background in high society with her gold jewelry and weapon as well as her elegant shirt and hairstyle. At the same time, she now has to become resourceful and scrappy, hence the cargo pants and combat boots.
PICKPOCKET: Carrion
Main antagonist from upcoming animated series
character
Carrion is the most powerful member of an elite police force called the Debt Collectors. Carrion uses his physical prowess and his elite status to ruthlessly terrorize his victims and get away with excessive force.
Inspiration
I wanted Carrion to be Corvid themed—hence the name. Crows are symbols of death. Odin also uses Ravens as information gathers or in other words, an “all-seeing eye.” This iconography carries over to both Carrion’s personality and his occupation.
character
“Bolumbia Bragedy” is a dating-sim/murder mystery parody game created by Michael Lawes. Within the game, the player is a sophomore at college and interacts with a cast of fellow college undergrads
Inspiration
The composition for the “Bolumbia Bragedy” cover was inspired one of Tite Kubo’s official “Bleach” art.
TRU LANDLORD STORIES: Landlords
Main characters from the web series “Tru Landlord Stories” on The DeVine Way TV
character
The Landlords are embodiments of the DeVine brothers’ younger selves in the real estate market.
inspiration
The inspiration for these looks comes from The DeVine Way TV’s earlier skits. I worked to translate these outfits into an animated rendition.
character
The late Pimp C is a Houstonian rapper and member of Underground Kings (UGK) alongside Bun B. I made concept art for a TV series detailing stories about his career as a rapper.
inspiration
These three looks come from real outfits Pimp C has worn including from left to right: his attire in 2006 album “Pimpalation” cover, his attire in “Get Throwed” music video, and his attire in the music video “Int. Player’s Anthem (I Choose You).”