Trophies of Time

"The Fabled" was the name I gave to this piece. It was one of the most information-heavy pieces I did, encompassing item representations for decades of experiences. There was a deep, deep lore to this character, who had won tournaments, been "first-to" on a variety of different challenges and feat, as well as some hints at an identity crisis (with the character). Custom weapons, armor, items - all of them had a story as to why there were important.

This was one of the first portraits I did, and I'm not sure I've ever had another character with as much personalization from the character's player.

For example - the helmet is not a Barbarian's (the race featured), it is of a Dark Elf. It is meant to show that the Dark Elf was the preferred race, and was only achievable by using an illusionary item in his inventory. The sword was a tournament prize, the card from his favorite zone in-game, the pelt a result of all the time he'd spent killing polar bears, and even the books and their titles have significance. The shield on the wall, and the colors chosen of the tabards - everything was intentional.

It might have been weird to get that much specificity with a piece if the player wasn't so cool. He was genuinely a fan, still is, and a great collaborator on something that I hope still hangs on his wall. Thanks always, QXX.