This project explored the design of an original Nazgûl helmet set within the world of Middle-earth, reimagining a Ringwraith as a fallen Haradrim king. Inspired by the challenge of expanding on the visual language established by the Witch-king, the project focused on how a character's past identity, culture, and environment could influence their appearance as a Nazgûl.
Through research, sketching, and digital illustration, a range of concepts were developed that combined Haradrim influences with the dark and imposing presence associated with the Ringwraiths. Drawing inspiration from desert cultures, layered veils, and the forms of desert scavengers, the final design uses the silhouette of a vulture skull to create a distinctive yet believable addition to the world of Middle-earth. This project explored a human led AI design process, with the design direction, form development, and key creative decisions shaped through sketching and concept development, while AI visualisation tools such as Vizcom were used to rapidly explore materials, lighting, atmosphere, and cinematic presentation.
First concept and idea sketches
Bringing early ideas to life in Procreate
Chosen concept
Enhancing my designs through AI
3D models generated in Vizcom
Prompt to bring my idea to life in Vizcom
AI generated contextual visualisation
AI generated contextual visualisation
AI generated contextual visualisation