***$5-and-up patrons can download this as a wallpaper for their desktop or phone over at patreon.com/posts/66882641***
A young girl is called by a noble voice into a life of hardship. There, she disguises her femininity and faces bandits, strange voices, unworthy kings, enemy armies, inquisitors, imprisonment, despair, and betrayal. Yet her journey is guided by something beyond this world, and through the whirling mists of uncertainty, she discovers her purpose, learns to trust in those dearest to her, and becomes a beacon of hope to her people.
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JOKE-OGRAPHY:
This month’s wallpaper is based on the original “Mistborn” trilogy by Brandon Sanderson, which begins as a heist thriller set in a dark kingdom of magic and intrigue. In this wallpaper, I’ve replaced the main character, Vin, with St. Joan of Arc, because both are girls who dress in boys’ clothes, both are single-minded warriors, and both try to change their home for the better by having a very physical say in its leadership. I’ve replaced the story’s mentor and charming crew-leader, Kelsier, with St. Michael the Archangel, because both were a force of support and guidance to their respective charges, and both managed to turn seemingly lowly peasant girls onto the path of heroes.
AUTHOR’S NOTE:
There’s more I could share to explain the image, of course, but doing so just might spoil parts of the original “Mistborn” trilogy, which I wouldn’t want to do when it’s so worth reading. I only just finished it this month, but it’s easily one of my favorite series of all time. It’s not for everyone, but it’s got oodles of dark fantasy, a fascinating magic system, engaging mysteries with amazing twists and pay-offs, and poignant points about leadership, trust, and faith. If any or all of that sounds swell to you, give it a read (or a listen if you like audiobooks; Michael Kramer’s narration is wonderful), or if you’ve already read it, let me know what you thought (without any spoilers, just in case)!
This is about Little Joan of Arc celebrating the May Day and meeting “Fairies” in a magic pond. Children and people with imagination can see more than anybody:)
I am an illustrator living and working in America. I love good stories and art, especially those of history and fantasy, which I explore throughout my artwork. I strive to create illustrations that are monumental and dramatic.
I’m currently attending the Maryland Institute College of Art for a BFA in Illustration.“
Missed it by a couple of days, but January 6th marks the Epiphany - the start of Carnival season. It’s also the celebrated birthday of Joan of Arc, so happy 608th.
The statue pictured is Joanie on the Ponie, gifted to the city of New Orleans in 1972 by France. Joan is the Maid of New Orleans, since the city was named after Orleans, the first city she defended and recaptured for the French in the 100 years war.
The executioner was there. English soldiers held her slight figure as she was bound to the wooden stake high above the waiting crowd. Her lips moved in restless, ceaseless prayer. Now the air was shifting: a snapping in the ears; a catch of smoke in the throat. Her voice was high and urgent. ‘Jesus. Jesus. Jesus.’ The fire burned.
Her penultimate sighs. Called softy on the kindling wind. Her saintly eyes filling with tears, lifting with truth. And then a golden flash like the onset of Heaven. Leaving her screams breaking my heart. And in the grip of fire. I knew the death of love.
