[ENG] Behind the Scenes of the ALNST 2nd Anniversary Pop-up Store

Hello, it's TEAM. Forma+9! Since we've put a lot of effort into the illustrations for the 2nd anniversary pop-up store, we wanted to share the making of our main concept illustrations. Given that the setting is woven into the artwork, we think you’ll enjoy it even more with the merchandise.

01. Establishing the Main Concept

The main concept of this pop-up is medical horror. While Anakt Garden appears to be a music academy on the surface, it also functions as a training facility to produce ALNST champions, conducting cruel experiments to create exceptional pet-humans. We wanted to depict the idol training process as part of this experimental narrative.

02. Concept Sketching & Setting Development

We wanted to combine the medical horror elements we've been developing with idol training to create a new concept. Our goal was to evoke a sense of fear that resonates with you, stemming from a society that prioritizes results and achievements over human compassion.

VIVINOS's sketch

Before we dive into the actual work, our lead director, VIVINOS, laid out what kind of training took place at Anakt Garden. The list of experiments is as follows:

MIZI_C+_subject of experiment (Dance practice)

Mizi's experiment focuses on dance training. She dances using special equipment for precise monitoring, and unlike the sketches, we wanted to intuitively showcase her form. With her eyes covered, designing a unique and beautiful silhouette for her costume was crucial.

TILL_A+_subject of experiment (instrument practice)

This experiment observes how the human brainwaves react and change while playing the guitar. Till, being skilled with instruments, naturally earned himself an A+.

IVAN_D_subject of experiment (Image-making training)

Ivan is tied to an operating chair, undergoing correction of his smile and posture. His million-dollar smile is also a result of meticulous training and correction.

SUA_A_subject of experiment (Singing training)

Sua is in vocal training. I wanted to portray Anakt's educational approach, which utilizes a cult-like system to brainwash the children. The children at Anakt put their hands together and sing every day with vacant eyes, honoring a false deity as instructed. But Sua, Ivan, Till, and Mizi sing with agency, fueled by their love for others. That's why their songs stood out, and they successfully passed the final evaluation with excellent results to participate in ALNST.

HYUNA_A+_subject of experiment (Superiority test)

This depicts the process of determining physical and intellectual genes classified as superior. Hyeonu is looking at Hyuna with concern.

LUKA_A+_subject of experiment (Heart rate variability)

This training involves controlling heartbeats to induce the fear of death. This rigorous training is exclusive to Luka.

03. Working on the Illustrations

With the concept and settings in place, it's time to get down to work! The illustrations for this pop-up store were created by lead director VIVINOS and co-director QMENG. From sketches to the final product, we continued to exchange our ideas until completion. Typically, VIVINOS provides QMENG with a rough sketch and the broad framework of the concept. Then, QMENG adds detailed elements and unique points for each character to complete the illustrations.

04. Final Thoughts

Thank you for reading this month's Patreon update! Please remember that the content shared here is confidential and not for external distribution, though creations derived from these Patreon contents are welcome. We appreciate your ongoing support and hope you stay tuned for more from ALNST!

translation: Amy Baek