The views from each page came directly from the author. It is no easy task to draw coherent views of such a figure.
Case Study
Marketing
From 2D fantasy to 3D world — How a manga character becomes an XXL exhibit
In close coordination with the mangaka Ban Zarbo and Altraverse Verlag, the character of the protagonist “Sami” was created from their manga “Cold”.
A great hero deserves a big stage
From fictional characters to tangible and 2m tall sculpture — we bring figures, action heroes, mascots and more to life with the help of 3D printing so that they attract people's attention at the POS, at your exhibition stand or advertising space.
“Cold” — this is the name of the latest work by the talented mangaka Ban Zarbo, in which icy creatures threaten the world and only a brave protagonist gives people hope. The manga publisher Altraverse, which stands behind “Cold”, has already relied on our expertise once: Back then, we awakened “Scarecrow” The main character from the manga “The Secret of Scarecrow” (by Gin Zarbo) impressively comes to life. Now “Sami” is also due to get its big appearance — as a two-meter high XXL exhibit.
From 2D to 3D — challenge accepted!
One of the biggest challenges in implementing a life-size manga character is the interplay between typical 2D style features and credible 3D implementation. Big eyes, simplified anatomies and exaggerated proportions are essential elements that make up the charm of comics and manga. In a manga, it is also completely normal for eyes to vary significantly or be deliberately distorted depending on the scene and perspective.
For a life-size figure, however, it is important to find a balancing act between stylized fidelity to the original and realistic proportions so that Sami is also convincing in the third dimension. No matter how many templates there may be, it is always an interpretation that results from many small and large artistic decisions. The task is, as a 2D to 3D translator, so to speak, to preserve the essence of the character and at the same time make it three-dimensionally coherent.
About the project
size:
approx. 2.00 m
weight:
approx. 50 kg
Print time:
600 hours of printing
Our services
01
3D model creation
02
Large format 3D printing
03
Assembly & painting
Project process
In close coordination with the goal: How Mangaka Ban Zarbo and Creative Polymer bring “Sami” into the real world
In order for “Sami” as a 3D character to exactly match the spirit of the manga, close cooperation with its creator was essential. Together with Ban Zarbo, we have shared sketches, intermediate steps and feedback several times in order to approach the final look step by step. In this way, we were able to ensure that every crease in clothing, every facial line and the exact pose was exactly as the artist's vision intended.
In particular, the balancing act between manga style and realistic 3D presentation proved to be a concise sticking point that required several design iterations.
The finished printed head of Cold Sami
Designed in large format: From a 3D model to a 2-meter figure
Once the digital 3D model has taken shape, the next exciting step follows: large-format 3D printing with our specially developed FDM printers. But before the printing process can even start, there are a few questions to be answered:
· How many individual parts do we divide the figure into?
· Where do we set the cuts?
· Should the figure be dismantled later?
· What makes the most sense for good transportability?
Although we have already considered all of these points in advance, it is now becoming concrete. The cuts are defined, the feasibility checked and adjusted as necessary. To ensure that the sculpture is not only impressively large but also safe to transport, we are already planning a multi-part construction at this stage. In this way, even a two-meter high character can be divided into handy segments and later put together precisely.
Sami finally decided on three main segments: a top, a bottom and the tail. Whether at trade fairs, events or as an eye-catcher in the publishing foyer — Sami will make for astonished faces everywhere.
Colourful and ice-cold — The effective painting of the half-human, half-ice monster
One of the best moments in creating an XXL exhibit is every time we can finally look at the figure in all its colorful splendor and with all its effects. It was clear to us from the start that Sami's “ice monster side” in particular had to shine with a convincing ice effect.
We also took a strategic approach when dividing Sami: The division into several individual parts not only improved printability and later transportability, but also made painting significantly easier. Among other things, we deliberately painted the head, skin and ice parts separately so that our painting professionals can process more manageable segments in the cabin and minimizes the risk of errors through clearly defined areas.
From paper to the limelight — Sami from 'Cold' conquers trade fairs
After months of work, the time has finally come: Sami is making his debut! As an impressive, two-meter high exhibit, it immediately attracts everyone's attention at trade fairs and events. For Altraverse Verlag, the XXL figure is a very special highlight, which impressively presents the new manga “Cold”. This is already the second major project after “Scarecrow”, which was created in close collaboration with Altraverse — and the enthusiasm is greater than ever.
Mangaka Ban Zarbo himself is particularly pleased with the successful trade fair appearance. Seeing their protagonist from the manga take shape in the real world fills them with pride and motivation for further stories. Fans were impressed by the detailed design and took advantage of the unique opportunity to take pictures of themselves with “Sami” and share their experiences on social media.
The figure not only served as an eye-catcher at the trade fair, but also as a central point of contact for community activities, signing sessions and exclusive manga previews. This made it clear how a life-size 3D figure not only brings characters to life, but also acts as a powerful marketing factor.
Since both “Scarecrow” and “Sami” were a complete success for Altraverse, it is already clear that more 3D printing projects will follow in the future to bring new heroes and heroines to life. Sami has impressively proven that manga characters can radiate incomparable charm not only on paper but also in the real world.
Start your 3D adventure now!
With “Sami”, Altraverse, together with Creative Polymer, has once again shown how a manga character can become an impressive, life-size 3D sculpture. If you too would like to bring your characters, ideas or brand ambassadors into the third dimension, we would be happy to assist you with our know-how and passion for unique projects.
Contact us and let us create your next 3D adventure together!
Do you also need a plus size figure?
With “Sami”, Altraverse, together with Creative Polymer, has once again shown how a manga character can become an impressive, life-size 3D sculpture.
If you too would like to bring your characters, ideas or brand ambassadors into the third dimension, we would be happy to assist you with our know-how and passion for unique projects.
Contact us and let us create your next 3D adventure together!
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