What are Own Characters? The abbreviation "Oc" is often used. When I shared my pictures on Facebook for the first time in 2012, discovered and got to know many great artists, I often heard the term Oc. An Oc is a character that the artist has designed. This character is given fixed character traits, recognisable features, a specific or fixed style of dress and a name. This designed figure or character then belongs to this person. In other words, it is a character that belongs to the designer/artist. This character can also have its own story and its own identity. In addition, this figure is usually painted often by the person and visualised in certain poses, places or situations. When I knew what an Oc was, I immediately created one for myself. I still enjoy creating my own characters and writing stories for them. So far I have created over 40 characters.
But why? Why create and design our own characters (Ocs), which we then call our own? I think that creating our own characters can make our imagination bloom. We think of a fictional person with characteristics that we like. The end result, the presentation and painting, the creation of the character itself and its story is finally something that brings joy.
By drawing the ocs frequently, we can see the progress we have made over the years. If you scroll down further, you will see my first Oc Ayumi (picture 1). Step by step I have refreshed her "character sheet" (a picture where I present the character), so that now a progress of one's artistic skills is visible.
Ocs can also be a good identifying mark of an artist. If a figure is drawn particularly often, it can be associated with the artist ( a recognition feature). Everyone who sees this Oc will immediately think of the artist. In my early days, I often drew my Oc Miya ( picture 2) or Ayumi, which was my recognition feature when I was still active on Facebook.
A fan base: Sometimes I have observed (especially on Instagram) that the person's own characters were so well received that a fan base even developed. This means that the followers liked the artist's ocs so much that they didn't get to see enough of these characters.
Adoptables: some artists create fictional characters or design clothes for them to sell, trade or raffle. Adoptables are self-created characters that can then be offered for sale, etc. On many social networks and Deviantart there are groups where these adoptables are offered. I have also adopted a few (either bought, received through an exchange, through raffles or small drawing competitions).
Creative fulfilment and fun when designing a character: at last, the joy behind creating your own characters must not be missing. Whether you create just one or hundreds of your own characters is entirely up to you.
