Reboarding the Midnight Train

Every once in a while, a project sits in the background patiently waiting to be continued, this can go on

for weeks, months or in my case years . . .  For me, that project is The Midnight Train; A world I built two

years ago for a concept art class in 2023.  Today however, I’m stepping back onto that world with new tools,

new skills, and a very different perspective as an artist.

A Look Back at the Original Project

The Midnight Train began as a small idea that quickly grew into a videogame concept,

an old conductor whose job is to guide spirits into the afterlife.  A rough caretaker of lost souls,

he helps them move on rather than remain tethered to the past, if he fails those souls become vengeful ghouls.

It was one of the first story-driven concepts I ever built, and it stuck with me long after the assignment ended.

Why I’m Returning to This World

Two years later, I realized something important: my portfolio doesn’t have as many characters as I’d like,

and I’ve learned so much since 2023.  Coming back to The Midnight Train feels like the perfect chance to develop

one of my earlier ideas while applying the skills I’ve grown into, almost like meeting an old friend again but as

a changed man or in this case, artist.

What I Aim to Improve This Time Around

My goal is simple: push my character-art quality as far as I can, focusing on anatomy, structure, form, and most importantly, the charm of a 2D concept into a fully realized hand-painted 3D character.  With stronger knowledge in ZBrush, Substance Painter, and stylized workflows, this feels like the right moment to see what’s truly possible.

ere's my current moodboard + research for the 3D adaptat

Stepping Back Into the World

I’m returning to an old world with new tools and I’m excited to see how far I’ve come.  If you want to follow along as I bring this character to life over the next few weeks, stay tuned.  There’s a lot more to come.

See you very soon.

— Arsenal Avery

(Below you will find the character, original moodboard and current moodboard)