Description:

The Magic of Lamasia is a 2D animated television series for ages 11+ about the parallel journeys of twin sisters from completely different worlds. It has themes of belonging, acceptance, and found family. This concept design project explores what this story would look like as a 2D animated television series, in the form of a pitch document and introduction animatic. It is aimed specifically at creating positive fat representation in childrens’ media. Representation is important to help children develop a sense of self. Seeing yourself on screen can impact not only your identity, but how you view others. The underrepresentation of fatness supports low tolerance for different body shapes and sizes; and what little representation there is usually supports negative stereotypes. This project focuses on character design, to show children that do not necessarily fit normative social beauty standards that they, too can be the beautiful, heroic, and successful main characters.

The Magic of Lamasia is about a diverse group of teens who find love and acceptance through community and friendship. The plot follows Billie, a chubby high schooler whose past is a mystery, even to their adoptive parents. She feels like she doesn't fit in at school due to her strange visions and magical abilities. So when Billie finds a mysterious letter from their birth mother about an island of witches, they jump at the opportunity to find out more about their magical past. Billie and her three best friends start to uncover the mystery of Billie's heritage through a series of magical adventures to Lamasia. Little do they know, their history is intertwined with the secrets of the island, and reveal much more than just Billie's parentage.
Willa, is living on the witch island of Lamasia. As a human, Willa feels she has to constantly prove her worth in a society that strongly values magic. However, recently her island's nature-based magic has been warping in dangerously unpredictable ways. With no magic of her own to be corrupted, Willa is in a unique position to help, if only the Witch Council respected her. The sisters meet in a surprising reunion, and work together to solve the problem of the warping island magic. Through their journey, they encounter physical and emotional obstacles, as they learn about acceptance and belonging through the help of their friends.