Discover Karmen Loh’s Fantasy Portraits

Get lost in the dreamy world of independent illustrator, Bearbrickjia

Karmen Loh, also known as Bearbrickjia (@bearbrickjia), is an independent illustrator and character concept artist from Malaysia. Loh uses her dreamy illustration style to explore fantasy worlds and femininity; her work channels tranquility and ethereal beauty. You will often find her portraits decorated with details from outer space, the ocean, and flora. She draws inspiration from Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki, James Jean, and Aykut Aydogdu.

As a character concept artist, Loh has worked on video games such as Street Fighter V and Steel Circus, and collaborated with clients such as XP-Pen and the electronic music YouTube channel, “MrSuicideSheep”. Here we take a look at a selection of works that show off Loh’s dreamy aesthetic and unique versatility.

Color portraits – personal work

Loh’s personal work is an exploration of femininity and tranquility, both in male and female subjects. Her portraits capture mystical youth culture in a dreamy color palette, playing with fashion and fantasy. Her personal work often features elements of nature, outer space, and the ocean.

Sketches – personal work

This selection of pencil sketches shows off Loh’s talent in a more stripped-back format. Gone are the mystical color palettes and otherworldly details. Here we see her impeccable understanding of light and shade and shape and proportions.

Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition – character concepts

Whilst working at Streamline Studios, Loh created various character costume designs for Street Fighter V: Arcade Edition. Here are some examples of Loh’s work, for which she carried out the rough and refined concept. You will notice a departure from her usual style, instead, creating looks that bring new life to a well-known franchise.

Steel Circus – character concepts

As part of another Streamline project, Loh also worked on the multi-player online game set, Steel Circus. Set in the year 2350, the game’s story unites champions from different factions for an annual sports tournament. Loh created this wrestling outfit for the character Ellika.

MrSuicideSheep – illustration

MrSuicideSheep is an electronic music YouTube channel, for which Loh regularly creates exclusively-commissioned visuals for different tracks. Loh’s contribution adds a beautiful narrative layer to the music.

If you have enjoyed getting to know Karmen Loh and like her work, be sure to check out her Domestika course, Digital Fantasy Portraits with Photoshop.

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