Blade Dance

In the desert city of Aksu, Zayn the jackal practices his sword dance on a rooftop, high above the bustling streets, souks and bazaars below. The fluidity of his movements seem effortless, and his clothing flows in perfect harmony with his body. With a flourish he halts and gazes up into the eyes of Naji, who has been watching from the sidelines.

This was a large commission for the ever patient NightEyes, inspired by the novel he is writing. I'm very much looking forward to seeing that published!

I was thrilled to do an Arabian themed piece as I am so interested in that aesthetic and history. My favorite part, personally, is the intricate doorway. I haven't done many urban settings, or that level of patterning before. This took me quite some time to complete, but I'm quite happy with how it turned out.

Watercolor, colored pencil and marker on 11x14" illustration board.