A Visual Brainstorming Technique in Character Design: Braindrawing

Abstract Character design is a complex design process that requires originality, narrative depth and visual consistency all at once. However, students often approach the idea‐generation process using intuitive and unsystematic methods. This study aims to examine the pedagogical potential of the braindrawing technique in graphic design education. The research was designed as a practice‐based qualitative case study conducted in a classroom setting. A total of 69 students participated in the study, and the open‐ended comments of 47 students were analysed using thematic analysis. Additionally, student work and observations made throughout the process were included in the dataset. The findings indicate that the braindrawing technique increases students' idea diversity, helps them overcome creative blocks and supports collaborative interaction. It was observed that the process contributed to students developing more original and narratively strong character designs. By focusing on the use of the braindrawing technique in the context of character design and illustration education, this study contributes to the literature on design education.