The Phantom Inker

I've been inspired in years past by the brilliant fantasy artwork of Boris Vallejo. His characters are beyond lifelike into a realm of almost hyper-real, his paintwork is incredible, and his composition and balance is nearly perfect.

So this is one I've wanted to do for a while: It's not Boris, by any means, but it has some of the "classic fantasy" feel that his pictures have. Cam and Joss are entering a pitched battle, and no-one can know for certain who will be the victor.

I really like how Cam turned out, but I'm not as sold on Joss. Her pose is nearly perfect, and her hair is some of the best big-swooshy straight hair I've ever drawn. Her expression has confidence and nervousness at once, and she looks like she's practiced archery her whole life in preparation for this moment. And then there's Joss. Eh, not so much. Something about his pose is awkward and doesn't quite work, but I can't really put my finger on it. So until I do, these two are gonna have to remain incomplete.

But still, there's something about this I really like. It has that "classic fantasy artwork" feel, and even if it's not Boris, it's still kinda fun.

Let me know what you think! Enjoy!