Creating Alien Art: How to Eliminate Human Influence
I’m currently diving into a personal project focused on alien life on a planet reminiscent of Earth. However, it’s evident that most portrayals of aliens in media often bear some resemblance to human form, even if it’s subtle. Take Ridley Scott’s Alien, for instance; despite its abstract and eerie design, there’s still a hint of a human-like shape.
This raises an interesting question: How can we design an alien species or race that is devoid of human traits or characteristics? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this!
That’s a fascinating question! Creating an alien species with little to no human characteristics can definitely be a challenge, but it also opens up a world of creative possibilities. Here are a few approaches you might consider:
Focus on Unfamiliar Biology: Start by imagining a completely different biological makeup. Instead of using carbon-based life forms like us, consider alternatives like silicon-based organisms. Think about how their physical structure could be drastically different—perhaps they are amorphous, or they have exoskeletons, or even a form of hive mind that doesn’t require individuality.
Environmental Influence: Design your alien life forms based on their environment. If their planet has extreme conditions, like high acid levels or high-pressure environments, this could dictate their shape and function. For instance, an organism adapted to high pressure might be flattened or extremely flexible, while one in a toxic atmosphere may have protective layers or unusual gas-exchanging systems.
Different Sensory Perceptions: Consider how an alien species might perceive the world differently than humans do. They may have sensory organs that allow them to detect electromagnetic fields or chemical signatures far beyond our capabilities. Designing their bodies around these senses could lead to entirely foreign shapes and features.
Alternative Evolutionary Paths: Think about unique evolutionary pressures that could lead to different forms. Instead of having eyes or limbs, perhaps they have appendages or features that serve entirely different functions, like using bioluminescence for communication or having skin that changes texture or color for camouflage or signaling.
Abstract Forms: Delve into more abstract representations. Your aliens could take on geometric shapes, patterns, or colors that signify their individuality or roles within their society. This could include shifting forms or colors based on their emotions or status.
Cultural Expression: Explore how culture might shape their appearance. Perhaps they have developed a form of body decoration like bioluminescent patterns or unique shell formations that express social status or identity, which would be completely alien to human interpretations of art and beauty.
Concept of Functionality: Instead of anthropomorphizing your aliens, root their design in functionality specific to their environment. For instance, if their planet has extreme weather patterns, they might evolve structures that can withstand high winds or retain moisture, leading to unconventional forms that serve practical purposes.
By fully embracing what it means to be “alien,” you can push the boundaries of imagination and create life forms that challenge both their functionality and representation. The key is to let go of our human-centric view of life and explore how fundamentally different an organism could be within the kaleidoscope of possible biological forms.