Working Process of
Cheek Hug Animation
This animation was created based on an illustration of two characters hugging with their cheeks touching.
The idea was inspired by a very cute moment from my favourite actor, which they described as a “healing method” to boost energy.
I found it really adorable, and that’s how this project started.
Line Art
Cheek Hug Illustration
The characters in this artwork represent me and my bestie
Illustration Process
Sketch 1
For the illustration process, I first created multiple sketches with different poses.
After choosing the pose I liked, I made some adjustments to the scale.
Sketch 2
Originally, the characters felt too big, so I changed them into a more chibi-style proportion while keeping the same pose.
This became my base pose after refinement.
After that, I applied the character designs for both me and my bestie onto the base.
I also created a speed paint from the very beginning of the process.
Originally, this was planned as a single illustration.
However, after finishing it, I found it too cute to leave as just one image,
so I decided to extend the project by creating an animation of the moment right before the cheek hug happens.
Animation Process
For the animation, I first sketched a simple storyboard using basic body shapes to plan the movement.
Once I was happy with the flow, I refined it by adding character details, cleaning up the linework, and then colouring it.
After completing the animation, I still felt like it wasn’t enough. I wanted the illustration and animation to connect better,
so I edited the final presentation into a photo-shooting concept.
The illustration acts as the captured photo, while the animation shows the moment just before the shutter is pressed.
I also added props and UI elements to make it feel like a camera screen, along with sound effects.
Here is the final result!
