Meaning: This quote by Gerald Scarfe, a renowned artist and illustrator, provides insight into the creative process involved in bringing characters to life. Scarfe's experience with Disney's film "Hercules" highlights the unique challenge of visualizing and developing characters based solely on a script. In essence, Scarfe's role as an artist was to use his imagination to give form and personality to the characters, contributing to the visual storytelling of the film.

When Scarfe mentions that "nothing exists visually when I get the script," he emphasizes the initial absence of concrete visual references or designs for the characters. This underscores the reliance on his creative vision and artistic interpretation to shape the appearance and essence of the characters. It also speaks to the trust placed in artists like Scarfe to translate the written word into compelling visual representations.

The process of conceptualizing characters without pre-existing visual cues is a fundamental aspect of character design in various creative industries, including animation, film, and literature. It requires a deep understanding of the story, themes, and personalities within the script, as well as the ability to infuse these elements into the visual depiction of the characters.

For Scarfe, this meant delving into the world of "Hercules" and envisioning the unique traits, expressions, and characteristics of each character. From the heroic Hercules himself to the cunning Hades and the spirited Megara, Scarfe's task was to capture the essence of these individuals and bring them to life through his artistic interpretation.

The quote also sheds light on the collaborative nature of character development in the entertainment industry. While Scarfe was tasked with imagining the characters based on the script, his creations would ultimately become part of a larger, multidisciplinary production. His visual concepts would be integrated into the overall design, animation, and storytelling processes, shaping the final portrayal of the characters on screen.

Furthermore, Scarfe's experience with Disney highlights the significance of maintaining continuity and coherence with the established visual style and brand identity of the studio. While he was given creative freedom to develop the characters, his designs needed to align with the overarching aesthetic of the film and fit seamlessly into the Disney universe.

In conclusion, Gerald Scarfe's quote encapsulates the imaginative and collaborative nature of character design in the realm of visual storytelling. It underscores the pivotal role of artists in breathing life into characters, shaping their appearances, and contributing to the visual narrative of films. Scarfe's experience with "Hercules" serves as a testament to the power of creativity, imagination, and artistic interpretation in transforming scripts and narratives into captivating visual experiences for audiences.

Overall, Scarfe's insights provide a valuable glimpse into the creative process and the profound impact of artists in shaping the visual landscapes of storytelling.