Greetings fellow Hivers artists! This week I'm enthusiastically joining the art contest hosted by 
From the very first moment, Thunderhoof Nomad's original design captivated me with its imposing presence: a young warrior centaur with a steady gaze, a robust physique, and tribal energy. However, upon closer inspection, I felt there was room to explore an alternative version that would maintain its nomadic and magical essence, but from a more delicate, feminine, and alluring perspective. Thus, my character was born: a young centaur with emerald eyes, long, flowing hair, and adorned with a tiara of antlers that evoke a connection to nature and the spirits of the forest.
The creative process began with a sketch where I outlined the main lines of the face and torso. I wanted the expression to convey serenity and power, with a subtle smile suggesting ancient wisdom. The eyes were the focal point from the start: large, bright, with an intense green that reflects the magic surrounding her. The lines of the hair flow freely, as if caressed by the wind, and each strand was carefully defined to add movement and depth.
The tiara adorning her forehead is a reinterpretation of the original character's horns. Instead of a rustic structure, I opted for a golden crown with stylized antlers, decorated with turquoise gems that symbolize spiritual connection and magical power. This piece not only embellishes but also represents the protagonist's mystical lineage, as if she were a nomadic priestess who masters the secrets of the earth and air.
As for the clothing, I moved away from the traditional warrior style and opted for a lighter, more ceremonial outfit. The beige top with red and brown details evokes earthy colors, while the gold bracelets and leather straps add a tribal touch that honors the original design. Each element was carefully considered to balance sensuality and strength, without losing the nomadic character that defines the Thunderhoof Nomad.
The emerald magic surrounding my character was one of the most enjoyable elements to create. I used vibrant green tones and luminous particles to represent the energy emanating from her hands. The butterflies floating around her symbolize transformation, freedom, and ephemeral beauty; these magical creatures not only embellish the composition but also reinforce the aura of mystery that envelops the centaur. In my version, magic is not only a destructive force but also creation, healing, and a connection to the unseen.
The background was designed with undulating shapes in shades of green, creating an immersive atmosphere that enhances the character's magic without distracting from the viewer's attention. I wanted the environment to feel like an enchanted forest, where energy flows in every corner. The green waves also suggest movement, as if the magic were alive and constantly expanding.
As for the style, I opted for an anime aesthetic with clean lines, vibrant colors, and strong expressiveness. This approach allowed me to highlight facial features, the sparkle in the eyes, and the flowing hair. The digital technique gave me the opportunity to play with light and shadow, achieving a polished and dynamic finish. Each layer was meticulously crafted, from the initial outline to the final lighting details.
Comparing my version to the original character, I can say that both share a nomadic essence, a connection to nature, and ancestral power. However, my reinterpretation focuses on the feminine, magical, and emotional dimension of the character. While Thunderhoof Nomad represents brute strength and resilience, my centaur embodies subtle power, spiritual wisdom, and transformative beauty.
This piece is more than just an illustration; it's a celebration of the feminine, the magical, and the ancestral. I'm happy to share it with the
Illustrative Steps
Thunderhoof Nomad in the original image of the card from
The program used for the illustration has been Inkscape.
Translated with DeepL.com (free version)
