Free Vector Cartoon Characters For Motion Design
1. Understanding the Importance of Free Vector Cartoon Characters in Motion Design
Hey guys! Let's dive into why free vector cartoon characters are so crucial in the world of motion design. In motion design, these characters can bring your ideas to life without costing you a fortune. They’re versatile, customizable, and can add a unique touch to your projects. Think about it: a well-designed cartoon character can instantly grab attention and convey complex messages in a fun and engaging way. Whether you’re creating explainer videos, marketing materials, or educational content, having access to a library of free vector cartoon characters can be a game-changer. Plus, using vector graphics means they are scalable without losing quality, making them perfect for various screen sizes and resolutions. Free resources also enable designers, especially those just starting, to experiment and hone their skills without the pressure of budget constraints. Essentially, these characters serve as a foundation upon which compelling narratives and visually stunning animations are built. They provide a canvas for creativity and innovation, ensuring that your motion design projects stand out from the crowd.
2. Where to Find High-Quality Free Vector Cartoon Characters
So, where can you find these amazing free vector cartoon characters? There are several online resources offering a wide variety of options. Websites like Freepik, Vecteezy, and Pngtree often have sections dedicated to free vectors, including cartoon characters. Another great place to look is on individual artist portfolios and design communities like Dribbble and Behance, where designers sometimes offer freebies to promote their work. When searching, make sure to pay attention to the licensing agreements. While the characters might be free, they often come with specific terms of use, such as requiring attribution or limiting commercial use. It's also wise to use specific keywords in your search, such as "free vector character," "cartoon mascot free download," or "free animated character vector" to narrow down your results. Don't forget to check out specialized websites and forums dedicated to graphic design, as these communities often share links to valuable free resources. By exploring these various platforms and using targeted search terms, you'll increase your chances of discovering the perfect free vector cartoon characters for your motion design needs, saving you time and money while adding personality to your projects.
3. Best Websites for Downloading Free Vector Cartoon Characters
Alright, let’s get specific about the best websites where you can download free vector cartoon characters. First up, we have Freepik, which offers a vast collection of vectors, including a dedicated section for cartoon characters. The great thing about Freepik is the sheer variety available – you can find characters in various styles, poses, and themes. Just be aware that you might need to attribute the author if you’re using the free resources. Next, there’s Vecteezy, another powerhouse for vector graphics. They have a user-friendly interface and a wide selection of cartoon characters that are easy to browse. Again, keep an eye on the licensing terms. Pngtree is also worth checking out, especially if you’re looking for characters with transparent backgrounds. This can save you time when integrating them into your motion design projects. Don't forget about unDraw, which provides customizable illustrations that can be adapted to your brand colors. While not exclusively cartoon characters, you can find some gems there. And finally, explore websites like Openclipart and Pixabay, which offer a mix of user-submitted content that often includes free vector cartoon characters. By leveraging these websites, you'll have a solid starting point for building your character library.
4. Customizing Free Vector Cartoon Characters for Your Projects
Now that you've found some awesome free vector cartoon characters, let's talk about customization. After all, you want them to fit seamlessly into your projects and reflect your unique brand. One of the biggest advantages of using vector graphics is their scalability without losing quality, but customization goes beyond just resizing. You can modify the colors, outfits, and even facial expressions of your characters. To do this, you'll need vector editing software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape (which is a free alternative). Start by importing the vector file into your chosen software. From there, you can select individual elements of the character and modify them. For example, you might want to change the character's shirt color to match your brand palette or add a logo to their hat. You can also adjust their facial features to convey different emotions or poses to suit your animation needs. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques. You can add gradients, shadows, or textures to give your characters a more polished look. By taking the time to customize your free vector cartoon characters, you can create a cohesive and visually appealing motion design that truly stands out.
5. Integrating Free Vector Cartoon Characters into Motion Graphics Software
Okay, so you've got your customized free vector cartoon characters ready to go. The next step is integrating them into your motion graphics software of choice. Popular options include Adobe After Effects, Cinema 4D, and Blender. Each software has its own workflow, but the general process is similar. First, import your vector files into the software. In After Effects, for example, you can import the file as a composition, which will retain the layers from your vector editing software. This allows you to animate individual parts of the character separately, such as arms, legs, and facial features. Next, you'll want to familiarize yourself with the software's animation tools. After Effects has powerful features like keyframing, masking, and rigging, which allow you to create complex animations. Cinema 4D is great for 3D animations, while Blender is a fantastic free option that offers a wide range of capabilities. When animating your characters, think about the story you're trying to tell and how the character's movements can convey emotion and meaning. Experiment with different animation techniques, such as easing, follow-through, and anticipation, to create smooth and engaging animations. By mastering the integration of free vector cartoon characters into motion graphics software, you'll be able to bring your ideas to life in a visually stunning way.
6. The Benefits of Using Vector Graphics for Cartoon Characters
Let’s talk about the benefits of using vector graphics specifically for cartoon characters. The primary advantage, and one we've touched on, is scalability. Vector graphics are based on mathematical equations rather than pixels, meaning you can scale them up or down without losing any quality. This is crucial for motion design, where your assets might be used in various sizes and resolutions. Imagine creating a character for a mobile app and then needing to use it for a billboard – with vector graphics, you won't have to worry about pixelation. Another benefit is the ease of editing. As we discussed earlier, you can easily modify the colors, shapes, and other attributes of vector graphics using software like Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape. This gives you a lot of flexibility in customizing your characters to fit your brand and project needs. Vector graphics also tend to have smaller file sizes compared to raster images, which can improve performance in your motion graphics software. This is especially important when working on complex animations with multiple characters and elements. Finally, vector graphics often have a cleaner, more polished look, which can enhance the overall visual appeal of your motion design projects. By embracing vector graphics for your cartoon characters, you'll be setting yourself up for success in the world of motion design.
7. Creating Simple Animations with Free Vector Cartoon Characters
So, you’ve got your free vector cartoon character and you’re ready to start animating! Let's talk about creating simple animations that can bring your character to life without requiring advanced skills. Start with basic movements like walking, jumping, or waving. These foundational animations will help you understand the principles of timing, spacing, and easing. For example, when animating a walk cycle, pay attention to the contact point of the feet, the up and down motion of the body, and the swinging of the arms. Use keyframes to define the start and end points of each movement, and then adjust the timing and spacing to create a natural-looking animation. Don't be afraid to use simple tools like position, rotation, and scale to create dynamic effects. You can also add subtle details like blinking eyes or swaying hair to add personality to your character. Another great way to create simple animations is by using loops. A loop is a short animation that repeats seamlessly, such as a character breathing or tapping their foot. These loops can be combined to create longer, more complex animations. By focusing on these simple techniques, you can create engaging animations with your free vector cartoon characters, even if you're just starting out in motion design.
8. Advanced Animation Techniques for Vector Cartoon Characters
Ready to take your vector cartoon character animations to the next level? Let's dive into some advanced techniques that can add depth, realism, and visual flair to your projects. One key technique is rigging, which involves creating a skeletal structure for your character that allows you to control its movements more precisely. Rigging can be done in software like Adobe After Effects using tools like Duik Bassel or in dedicated 3D animation software like Cinema 4D or Blender. Another advanced technique is using inverse kinematics (IK), which allows you to move a character's limbs in a natural way. For example, instead of manually animating each joint in an arm, you can simply move the hand, and the rest of the arm will follow automatically. You can also experiment with different animation styles, such as squash and stretch, which exaggerates the movements of your character to create a more cartoony effect. Don't be afraid to use advanced effects like motion blur, shadows, and lighting to add depth and realism to your animations. Remember, practice makes perfect. The more you experiment with these techniques, the more comfortable you'll become, and the more impressive your vector cartoon character animations will be.
9. Adding Emotion and Personality to Your Free Vector Cartoon Characters
One of the most important aspects of motion design is conveying emotion and personality through your characters. Even if you're using free vector cartoon characters, you can still inject a lot of life into them. Start by thinking about the character's backstory, motivations, and personality traits. How would they react in different situations? What are their strengths and weaknesses? Use these details to inform your animation choices. For example, if your character is shy and timid, you might animate them with hesitant movements and downcast eyes. On the other hand, if your character is confident and outgoing, you might animate them with bold gestures and a wide smile. Pay attention to subtle details like facial expressions, body language, and voice acting. Even small changes in these areas can have a big impact on the overall feel of your animation. Don't be afraid to experiment with different styles and techniques to find what works best for your character. Remember, the goal is to create characters that your audience can connect with and care about.
10. Using Color Effectively in Your Cartoon Character Designs
Color is a powerful tool that can significantly impact the look and feel of your cartoon character designs. When choosing colors for your free vector cartoon characters, consider the message you want to convey and the overall aesthetic of your project. Start by creating a color palette that complements your brand and target audience. Think about the psychology of colors – for example, blue often conveys trust and reliability, while red can evoke excitement and energy. Use color to highlight important features of your character and to create contrast and visual interest. For example, you might use a bright color for their eyes to draw attention to their expressions. You can also use color to create depth and dimension by using different shades and tones. Don't be afraid to experiment with different color combinations to find what works best for your character. Remember, the goal is to create a visually appealing and memorable design that effectively communicates your message.
11. Designing Different Styles of Free Vector Cartoon Characters
The beauty of motion design is the freedom to explore different styles. When it comes to free vector cartoon characters, you're not limited to one particular look. You can experiment with various styles to match the tone and message of your project. For example, you might create a cute and cuddly character for a children's animation or a more edgy and stylized character for a marketing campaign. Consider the target audience and the overall aesthetic of your brand when choosing a style. Research different art styles and animation techniques to get inspiration. You can find inspiration in classic cartoons, modern animation, comic books, and even video games. Don't be afraid to mix and match different elements to create a unique and original style. Remember, the goal is to create characters that are visually appealing and that effectively communicate your message.
12. Tips for Optimizing Vector Files for Motion Design
Optimizing your vector files is crucial for ensuring smooth performance in your motion design projects. Large and complex vector files can slow down your workflow and cause rendering issues. Start by simplifying your vector paths. Remove any unnecessary points or details that don't contribute to the overall look of your character. Use the simplify path tool in Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape to reduce the number of points without sacrificing quality. Next, organize your layers properly. Group related elements together and name your layers clearly. This will make it easier to find and edit specific parts of your character in your motion graphics software. Convert text to outlines to avoid font compatibility issues. Embedded images should be linked instead of embedded to reduce file size. Also, save your vector files in a compressed format like SVG or AI to minimize file size without losing quality. By following these tips, you can optimize your vector files for motion design and ensure a smooth and efficient workflow.
13. Animating Facial Expressions with Free Vector Cartoon Characters
Facial expressions are a key component of conveying emotion and personality in motion design. Even with free vector cartoon characters, you can create a wide range of expressions by animating subtle changes in the eyes, mouth, and eyebrows. Start by creating a library of basic expressions, such as happy, sad, angry, and surprised. Use different shapes and positions for the eyes and mouth to convey each emotion. For example, wide eyes and an open mouth can indicate surprise, while downturned eyebrows and a frowning mouth can indicate sadness. You can also use subtle changes in the cheeks and forehead to add realism to your expressions. Animate these expressions using keyframes in your motion graphics software. Pay attention to the timing and spacing of your animations to create smooth and natural-looking transitions. Don't be afraid to exaggerate your expressions to create a more cartoony effect. Remember, the goal is to create expressions that are clear, readable, and that effectively communicate the emotion you want to convey.
14. Creating Dynamic Poses for Your Cartoon Characters
The poses your cartoon characters strike can tell a story all on their own. Creating dynamic and engaging poses is essential for bringing your characters to life and conveying their personality and intentions. When designing poses, consider the character's weight, balance, and center of gravity. A well-balanced pose will look natural and believable, while an unbalanced pose can create tension and excitement. Use the line of action to guide the overall flow of the pose. The line of action is an imaginary line that runs through the center of the character's body and indicates the direction of their movement or energy. Exaggerate the pose to create a more dynamic and visually interesting effect. Use overlapping shapes and negative space to add depth and dimension. Don't be afraid to experiment with different poses to find what works best for your character. Remember, the goal is to create poses that are expressive, memorable, and that effectively communicate the character's personality and intentions.
15. Adding Textures and Details to Free Vector Cartoon Characters
While free vector cartoon characters often have a clean and minimalist look, adding textures and details can significantly enhance their visual appeal. Textures can add depth, realism, and visual interest to your characters, making them more engaging and memorable. You can add textures using various techniques, such as gradients, patterns, and custom brush strokes. Experiment with different blending modes to create subtle and realistic effects. Details like clothing folds, wrinkles, and accessories can also add personality and realism to your characters. Pay attention to the light and shadow to create a sense of depth and dimension. Use highlights to emphasize the form and add a sense of shine, and use shadows to create contrast and define the shape. Don't overdo it with the details, as too much detail can make your characters look cluttered and distracting. The goal is to add just enough detail to enhance the visual appeal without overwhelming the overall design.
16. Incorporating Free Vector Cartoon Characters into Explainer Videos
Explainer videos are a powerful tool for communicating complex information in a clear and engaging way. Free vector cartoon characters can be a valuable asset in these videos, helping to capture attention, simplify concepts, and create a memorable experience for the viewer. When incorporating cartoon characters into explainer videos, consider their role in the narrative. Are they the main protagonist, a supporting character, or simply a visual aid? Use the characters to illustrate key points and to create a connection with the audience. Animate the characters in a way that is consistent with the tone and message of the video. Use clear and concise movements to convey information and to keep the viewer engaged. Add personality and emotion to the characters to make them more relatable and memorable. By effectively incorporating free vector cartoon characters into explainer videos, you can create compelling and informative content that resonates with your audience.
17. Using Free Vector Cartoon Characters for Social Media Marketing
In the fast-paced world of social media, grabbing attention is crucial. Free vector cartoon characters can be a fantastic way to make your social media posts stand out and engage your audience. Whether you're creating eye-catching graphics for Instagram, engaging animations for TikTok, or informative visuals for LinkedIn, cartoon characters can help you convey your message in a fun and memorable way. Use characters to represent your brand and create a consistent visual identity across all your social media platforms. Design characters that are relevant to your target audience and that reflect the values and personality of your brand. Animate the characters to create short, engaging videos that capture attention and communicate your message effectively. Use bright colors and bold designs to make your characters stand out in the crowded social media landscape. By incorporating free vector cartoon characters into your social media marketing strategy, you can create compelling content that resonates with your audience and helps you achieve your marketing goals.
18. Creating Storyboards with Free Vector Cartoon Characters
Before you start animating, it's essential to create a storyboard. Storyboarding helps you visualize your animation and plan out the key scenes, shots, and character movements. Free vector cartoon characters can be incredibly useful in this process. Start by sketching out the main poses and expressions of your characters in each scene. Use simple shapes and lines to represent the characters and their environment. Focus on conveying the key emotions and actions in each shot. Add text and annotations to describe the scene, dialogue, and camera movements. Experiment with different layouts and compositions to find the most effective way to tell your story. Use the storyboard as a guide when you start animating, but don't be afraid to make changes as you go along. Storyboarding with free vector cartoon characters can help you create a clear and compelling narrative that engages your audience and brings your animation to life.
19. Incorporating Free Vector Cartoon Characters into Website Design
Looking to add some personality to your website? Free vector cartoon characters can be a great way to inject fun and engagement into your web design. They can guide users through your site, illustrate key concepts, and add a friendly touch to your brand. When incorporating characters into your website, think about their role and how they can enhance the user experience. They could act as virtual assistants, mascots, or simply decorative elements. Ensure the characters align with your brand's aesthetic and target audience. A playful, cartoonish character might work well for a children's website, while a more sophisticated design could suit a professional business site. Optimize your vector files to ensure quick loading times and a smooth user experience. Animate the characters subtly to draw attention to key elements or provide feedback to user interactions. By thoughtfully integrating free vector cartoon characters into your website design, you can create a more engaging and memorable online experience for your visitors.
20. Avoiding Common Mistakes When Using Free Vector Cartoon Characters
Using free vector cartoon characters can be a great way to enhance your designs, but it's important to avoid common pitfalls. One mistake is neglecting licensing agreements. Always check the terms of use to ensure you're allowed to use the characters for your intended purpose, especially for commercial projects. Another common mistake is failing to customize the characters. Simply using them as-is can make your designs look generic. Take the time to adapt the characters to your brand and project by changing colors, outfits, or expressions. Poorly optimized vector files can also cause problems, leading to slow loading times or rendering issues. Always simplify your paths and compress your files before using them in your designs. Finally, avoid using characters that are irrelevant or inappropriate for your target audience. Choose characters that resonate with your viewers and that effectively communicate your message. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your use of free vector cartoon characters enhances your designs and achieves your desired results.
21. The Future of Free Vector Cartoon Characters in Motion Design
The future of free vector cartoon characters in motion design looks bright! As technology advances and design tools become more accessible, we can expect to see even more innovative and creative uses of characters in animations, videos, and interactive experiences. AI-powered tools may automate some aspects of character creation and animation, making it easier for designers to bring their ideas to life. We may also see the rise of more personalized and customizable characters that can adapt to individual user preferences. The increasing popularity of virtual and augmented reality could also create new opportunities for characters to interact with users in immersive and engaging ways. As motion design continues to evolve, free vector cartoon characters will remain a valuable asset for designers, helping them create compelling and memorable content that captivates audiences and achieves their communication goals.
22. Free Vector Cartoon Character for Educational Content
Free vector cartoon characters can significantly enhance educational content. By incorporating visually appealing and relatable characters, learning becomes more engaging and accessible for students of all ages. For instance, a cartoon character can guide learners through complex concepts, act as a friendly tutor, or represent historical figures in an engaging way. In e-learning modules, characters can provide interactive elements, making the learning process more dynamic. For example, a character could ask questions, give feedback, or offer encouragement, creating a more personalized learning experience. Moreover, animated explanations featuring cartoon characters can simplify difficult topics, making them easier to understand and retain. For young children, cartoon characters can make learning fun and less intimidating. Teachers can use these characters in presentations, worksheets, and classroom decorations to create a positive and stimulating learning environment. Overall, free vector cartoon characters provide a cost-effective and creative way to improve educational content and foster a love for learning.
23. Utilizing Free Cartoon Characters for Marketing Campaigns
Free cartoon characters offer a unique and cost-effective way to enhance marketing campaigns. By using relatable and engaging characters, businesses can capture the attention of their target audience and create memorable brand experiences. Cartoon characters can serve as brand ambassadors, representing the company's values and personality in a friendly and approachable manner. They can be incorporated into various marketing materials, including social media posts, advertisements, website content, and email newsletters. For example, a cartoon character can introduce new products, explain services, or promote special offers, making the marketing message more appealing and less intrusive. Furthermore, animated commercials featuring cartoon characters can be highly effective in conveying complex messages in a simple and entertaining way. These characters can also be used in interactive campaigns, such as online games and quizzes, to increase brand engagement and generate leads. Moreover, consistent use of a cartoon character across all marketing channels can help build brand recognition and loyalty. In essence, free cartoon characters provide a versatile and creative tool for businesses to connect with their audience and achieve their marketing objectives.
24. Free Vector Cartoon Character for Mobile App Design
Free vector cartoon characters can greatly enhance the user experience in mobile app design. By integrating visually appealing and interactive characters, app developers can create a more engaging and user-friendly interface. These characters can serve as guides, providing instructions, feedback, and encouragement to users as they navigate the app. For instance, a cartoon character can walk users through the onboarding process, explain app features, or offer tips on how to use the app effectively. In gaming apps, characters can be the central figures, driving the gameplay and creating an immersive experience. They can also be used in educational apps to make learning more fun and interactive for children. Moreover, cartoon characters can add a personal touch to the app, making it more relatable and appealing to users. For example, a character could react to user actions, express emotions, or offer personalized recommendations. By carefully selecting and integrating free vector cartoon characters, app developers can significantly improve user engagement, satisfaction, and retention.
25. Different Poses and Expressions of Cartoon Characters
Exploring the different poses and expressions of cartoon characters is crucial for effective motion design. A wide range of poses and expressions allows designers to convey various emotions and actions, making the characters more relatable and engaging. For example, a character standing with arms crossed might indicate confidence or defiance, while a character with wide eyes and an open mouth might express surprise or shock. Dynamic poses, such as running, jumping, or dancing, can add energy and excitement to the animation. Subtle expressions, such as a slight smile or a raised eyebrow, can convey nuanced emotions and personality traits. Designers can also use exaggerated poses and expressions to create a more comical or dramatic effect. It’s important to consider the context and purpose of the animation when choosing poses and expressions. The goal is to create characters that are expressive, believable, and capable of communicating the intended message effectively. By mastering the art of posing and expressing cartoon characters, designers can create animations that resonate with their audience and leave a lasting impression.
26. Free Cartoon Character Design Software Options
Exploring free cartoon character design software options is essential for designers on a budget. Several free tools offer a wide range of features for creating and customizing cartoon characters. Inkscape is a popular choice, offering vector-based drawing capabilities and tools for creating detailed characters. Krita is another excellent option, providing a comprehensive suite of digital painting tools and brushes for creating expressive characters. Blender, while primarily a 3D modeling and animation software, also includes tools for creating 2D characters. OpenToonz is a powerful animation software that allows designers to create traditional hand-drawn animations with ease. These free software options provide designers with the resources they need to bring their creative visions to life without incurring any costs. By experimenting with different software options, designers can find the tools that best suit their style and workflow. In essence, free cartoon character design software options empower designers to create high-quality characters and animations regardless of their financial constraints.
27. Tips for Animating Free Cartoon Character in After Effects
Animating free cartoon characters in After Effects can be a rewarding process, but it requires a solid understanding of the software's features and animation techniques. Start by importing your vector character as a composition, preserving the layers for individual control. Use the Puppet tool to create a rig for your character, allowing you to animate the limbs and body with ease. Keyframes are your best friend; use them to define the start and end points of your animations and adjust the timing and spacing to create smooth and natural-looking movements. Experiment with different easing options to add personality and realism to your animations. For example, using ease-in and ease-out curves can make your characters' movements feel more fluid and natural. Incorporate secondary actions, such as clothing movement or hair sway, to add depth and realism to your animations. Don't be afraid to use expressions to automate certain aspects of your animation, such as blinking eyes or breathing. By mastering these techniques, you can bring your free cartoon characters to life in After Effects and create engaging and memorable animations.
28. How to Simplify Vector Graphics for Animation Purposes
Simplifying vector graphics for animation purposes is crucial for ensuring smooth performance and efficient workflows. Complex vector files with excessive details can slow down your animation software and make it difficult to animate your characters effectively. Start by reducing the number of points in your vector paths. Use the Simplify Path tool in Adobe Illustrator or Inkscape to remove unnecessary points without sacrificing the overall shape of your character. Merge overlapping shapes and remove any hidden or redundant elements. Organize your layers effectively, grouping related elements together and naming your layers clearly. Convert strokes to fills to reduce the number of vector paths. Avoid using intricate patterns or gradients, as these can increase file size and complexity. If you need to use textures, consider using raster images instead of vector-based textures. By simplifying your vector graphics, you can optimize your files for animation and create a more efficient and enjoyable animation workflow. In short, simplifying vector graphics for animation purposes is a critical step in ensuring that your characters move smoothly and your animations run efficiently.
29. Free Vector Cartoon Character for Website Illustrations
Free vector cartoon characters can add a touch of personality and charm to website illustrations. They can be used to guide users, explain concepts, or simply add visual interest to a webpage. When incorporating characters into website illustrations, it's important to consider their role and how they contribute to the overall user experience. For example, a character could serve as a virtual assistant, providing help and guidance to users as they navigate the site. Alternatively, a character could be used to illustrate key points or highlight important information. It's also important to choose characters that are consistent with the brand's aesthetic and target audience. A playful and whimsical character might be appropriate for a children's website, while a more sophisticated character might be better suited for a professional business website. By carefully selecting and integrating free vector cartoon characters into website illustrations, designers can create more engaging and user-friendly websites that leave a lasting impression on visitors.
30. Free Animated Cartoon Character vs. Static Cartoon Character
Choosing between a free animated cartoon character vs. static cartoon character depends largely on the specific needs of your project. Free animated cartoon characters can bring life and dynamism to your content, capturing attention and conveying emotions more effectively. They are ideal for explainer videos, educational content, and marketing campaigns where engagement is key. However, they often require more time and resources to create or customize. Static cartoon characters, on the other hand, are simpler to use and can be easily incorporated into websites, presentations, and print materials. While they may not have the same level of dynamism as animated characters, they can still add personality and visual interest to your designs. When making your decision, consider your budget, timeline, and the overall goals of your project. If you have the resources and need to create a highly engaging experience, free animated cartoon characters are the way to go. If you need a quick and easy solution that still adds personality to your designs, static cartoon characters are a great choice.
