Chinese Zodiac Characters
Personifications of the years based in chinese mythology. Each year is an animal plus an element, translated into kemonomimi ("animal ears") and different fashion styles.
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A character design series reimagining the twelve animals of the Chinese Zodiac as stylized kemonomimi figures — human characters with animal features — each reflecting both their animal archetype and one of the five classical elements.
Concept
Each character combines two layers of identity: the zodiac animal (Rat, Ox, Tiger…) and its elemental year (Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, Water). These combinations inform personality, colour palette, and fashion direction.
Design System
All twelve characters share consistent proportions and a unified linework style, while each retains a distinct silhouette and visual mood.