Meaning: The quote by Sergio Aragones, a renowned cartoonist, provides insight into the process of creating compelling and relatable characters in the context of cartooning and visual storytelling. By breaking down the quote and exploring its meaning, we can gain a deeper understanding of the creative process and the importance of character development in visual media.

Aragones suggests that the first step in creating a compelling character is to establish the setting or context in which they exist. This implies that the environment and circumstances surrounding the character play a crucial role in shaping their identity and behavior. By understanding where the character is situated, the creator can better tailor their expressions and actions to suit the narrative and resonate with the audience.

In essence, the quote emphasizes the significance of context and environment in character development. Before delving into the intricacies of a character's personality and behavior, it is essential to consider the world they inhabit and the factors that influence their actions. This approach allows for a more holistic and coherent portrayal of the character within the larger narrative framework.

Furthermore, Aragones highlights the importance of elaborating on the expressions and actions of the character once the setting has been established. This suggests a focus on visual storytelling and the use of body language and facial expressions to convey emotions, personality traits, and motivations. By paying attention to these visual cues, the creator can imbue the character with depth and nuance, making them more relatable and engaging to the audience.

In the context of cartooning, where visual elements play a central role in storytelling, the ability to effectively convey character emotions and actions is paramount. Through expressive gestures, dynamic poses, and emotive facial expressions, cartoonists can breathe life into their characters and evoke strong emotional responses from the audience.

Aragones' emphasis on "elaborating" on expressions and actions also suggests a process of refinement and iteration. It implies that the creation of compelling characters is not a one-time endeavor but rather a continuous effort to fine-tune and enhance their visual and behavioral attributes. This iterative approach allows for the gradual evolution and development of characters, ensuring that they remain dynamic and engaging throughout the storytelling process.

In summary, Sergio Aragones' quote encapsulates the essence of character development in visual storytelling, emphasizing the importance of establishing context and environment before delving into the intricacies of character expressions and actions. By understanding where a character is situated and elaborating on their visual and behavioral traits, creators can craft compelling and relatable characters that resonate with audiences. This approach not only enriches the narrative but also elevates the visual storytelling experience, making characters come alive on the page or screen.

Overall, Sergio Aragones' quote serves as a valuable reminder of the fundamental principles of character development in visual media, offering insights that are relevant and applicable to creators and storytellers across various artistic disciplines.