Behind the design: llama

Les Whiteman is our in-house design director and the creative mastermind behind the newest member of the Rex London family; the llama. We spoke to him to see what went into creating this cheeky character.

The design team here knew that llamas were gaining in popularity in the design and retail world, and it’s easy to see why; they’re a really fun animal that appeals to boys and girls of a range of ages, and - if we designed it right - adults would love it too. 

I didn’t want the llama to look too cute and fluffy. I wanted it to be a bit cheeky and have a bit of attitude. 

Original llama sketch.

I experimented with the llama facing different directions, and found that having it in profile with the eyes peeking back, and a second pose where it was looking over its shoulder, gave it the attitude I was looking for. 

Original early sketches of the Rex London llama. 

Once I had the character sorted, then I had to think about colours. I picked a colour I liked for the llama fur and then worked off that. I went with a very soft and natural colour for the llama, so that I could choose bright, contrasting colours for the pack on its back. I chose the reds, pinks and golds as they were quite evocative of the llama’s homeland, South America. Then from there, the light blue background just felt like a natural fit with all the colours. 

The llama is currently available on lots of our lunch and shopping items, like our lunch bag made from recycled plastic bottles, which are always really popular. So far, I think my favourite is the flask, especially with winter coming up. It should be appearing on lots more items in the future too, so watch this space!

Thank you to Les for the look behind the design! Did you know our cheeky llama is currently nameless? We want your help in choosing a name, and everyone who puts forward a suggestion will be entered into a prize draw to win a Llama lunch bundle - visit our Facebook page for all the details and to enter.