The KRE8IVES Q&A
1. What personality or character did you think of when doing the first sketch?
Dexter - I first heard of the idea that is Sky Panda, the vision I had in mind, was for the look and personality to be doughy/sluggish in nature, but still solid in presentation. Almost like Snorlax from Pokémon, showing strength physically in size, but finding softness in just existing. The purpose was for Sky Panda to be exactly as he is in environments that he wouldn’t easily blend into.
Kevin - I thought of a confident Panda one who wasn’t the typical bamboo eating but has more attitude.
2. When did you realize you and your brother were on the same page?
Kevin - I realized immediately that my brother and I were in sync from our first design. It was as though we spoke the same language and trusted each other’s opinions. There were no no's it was more, let’s see and create until we both can sleep on the final edit.
Dexter - I realized my brother and I were on the same page when the excitement came from developing Sky Panda’s skill set and how these skills shined in all of these cool contradictory environments. It was also how excited we were to name the 3 penguins after Hot wings and hard lemonade. Gotta give the creative credit to those things for fueling our brains.
3. In the first sketch is Sky Panda good or bad? Seeing how he has an intimidating face.
Dexter - The first sketch of Sky Panda just shows a feeling of being gently interrupted. This version of Sky panda is saying “I’m being interrupted to go be cool again? I guess I can take this photo for you guys.” It’s like knowing he’s greatness or royalty, and everything he does is rooted in that.
Kevin - Sky panda is good and he doesn’t hide his emotions. That’s what makes him special to me. I also can’t hide my emotions.
4.How do you feel about out your brother and Max taking what was started 15 years ago and creating Sky Panda Starring in The Reward?
Dexter - I love that my brother and nephew, Max, have given Sky Panda a bigger purpose. This makes him more of a relatable and likable character. It’s no longer about him, but about others. He now provides inspiration and encouragement. The original vision started as something to make a statement. Being disliked for being different, or being born into a life you didn’t choose. There was a cockiness to the character. The vision now, embraces all differences, embraces the reward of hard work and preservation. Much more of a softer landing especially for kids. The contradictions surrounding the visual environments that pandas typically don’t belong in will hopefully inspire kids and adults to continue to think outside the box. Let their imaginations run free and simply have fun doing so.
5. Will there be another Sky Panda Book and who are the penguins!?
Max - Yes!
Kevin - We are working on the next Sky Panda and have many more characters and stories to share with the world. The Penguin Crew is his ride or die team.
Dexter - The Penguin Crew is there to help. We all have friends or an entourage per se, that keeps us accountable. Some go along with the craziness just to be apart of something, some share in the same passion and vision to achieve the next goal, and some are just chosen family. Their dynamic will always be to support Sky Panda in being his best self. He is safe, supported, and powerful in this dynamic. That’s what friends/family are for. I look forward to growth of these characters and many more as there are so many great stories to be told.
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