second image in trade with  patto
First, I'd like to say that for some odd reason, from the first time I drew the Death Spirit, it reminded me of something African. And not becuase of the tone of skin, but rather it's construction, skull "mask", loin cloth, and even the "tattoo" pattern on ti's body. It kept striking me very African in context, which is why I selected to make an African setting, as well as African decorated border.

The first image was a doodle I my tiny black sketchbook... the second I wanted a full blown art piece. Since I am experimenting with shape and color lately, I decided to approach this image the same way. Integrating a highly westernized caricatured style, with the geometric-oriented one. Color plays a dominant role here- especially since the BG is dominantly shape and color- to get the atmosphere of the eerie, yet silent moment when a Death Spirit comes for you.

At first, the sketch seemed as if the rabbit had passed, and almost comically; this giant, otherworldly spirit was gazing upon the cute fluffy thing.
However, I wanted to achieve another concept- not comical, but comforting. I wanted to reflect a different side to a very "tragic" concept of life. Death was, and always will be a personal thing. No one can share it with you. THAT is the most terrifying aspect of it. The fact that you are alone. You die alone.
I wanted to reflect those last moments, but this time, in a more comforting light: when death comes, you do have one companion there with you- and it's Death itself.
It forgets no one, and leaves no one behind.

Now, the image feels as if the rabbit is close to passing... and it's only comforting companion is the spirit that will take it from this world, and venture with it to the next.