Science of Creature Design: Understanding Animal Anatomy

What is creature design? We all have a notion — mostly consisting of evocative images of otherworldly beings galloping, swimming, flying, and often attacking the hero of an epic film or story. But what makes a creature believable? In the follow-up to her best seller, Animals Real and Imagined: The Fantasy of What Is and What Might Be, world-renowned artist Terryl Whitlatch reveals the secret behind believable creature design: anatomy.

Anatomy is the cornerstone of successful creature design, whether the creature is real or imaginary. Accurate anatomy is often the key to suspension of disbelief, allowing you to draw imaginary creatures that viewers will believe in.

We invite you to delve into the intricate workings of numerous animal anatomies — and the beauty they possess — in the Science of Creature Design: Understanding Animal Anatomy. Whitlatch’s delightful and charismatic illustrations will inform and thrill readers with every turn of the page. She shares valuable techniques reaped from years working for Lucasfilm and Walt Disney Feature Animation, and on such films as Jumanji, Brother Bear, and The Polar Express. In addition, Whitlatch possesses an endless love for real animals that continues to inspire her fantastic imaginary creatures, which have captivated audiences around the world.

About the Author:

Terryl Whitlatch is an accomplished, scientifically and academically trained illustrator who extensively studied vertebrate zoology and animal anatomy. She has worked for various zoos and museums in the United States and as senior consultant on Wildlife Art and Animal Anatomy for the World Wildlife Fund. She is considered to be one of the top creature designers and animal anatomists working in the field today. In a career spanning more than 25 years, Whitlatch has many projects to her credit, including Star Wars: The Phantom Menace, Star Wars: The Special Edition, Jumanji, Men in Black, Brother Bear, Dragonheart, Alvin and the Chipmunks, Curious George, The Polar Express, and Beowulf. For over seven years, she worked for Lucasfilm, Industrial Light & Magic, and George Lucas's JAK Films. Her illustration skills and comprehensive knowledge of animal anatomy and movement are essential in the development of believable creature creation.