Warrior Queen

This is the original image I found that depicted the look that I wanted for the lead character in Thulsa's Gate. Most of what I found were totally unrealistic. This one not only looked functional, but had a certain elegance to it.

Catrina Amanda Dallas, Warrior Queen of Thulsa

This is the first iteration of Catrina Dallas with the head of the character put on the body of the Warrior Queen. This composite also changes the figure's "man hands" to something resembling a young woman's hands. Funny how you don't even notice things like that. Good thing the cover artist saw it.

First composite of Catrina Dallas

This is the first rough composite sketch of Catrina. This was to get all the facial features in place.

Second polished composite of Catrina Dallas

Building a character image from scratch is a real eye opening process that was fascinating to watch unfold. Polish of the hair and the eyes, then slimming of the facial structure.

Third composite polish for Catrina Dallas

More polish to the eyes and lips. Jewelry has been added to give the Warrior Queen a feminine touch.

Fourth composite for Catrina Dallas

More polish, most of it subtle.

Catrina Dallas final polish

Final polish to the hair and eyes to better match the original subject for the character.

Clothing and arm compositing for Catrina Dallas

Compositing for the cloak or cape and setting the arms up to hold the weapons of a warrior.

Weapons and color for Catrina Dallas

With the weapons chosen and colored, the arms and hands are positioned and everything is put together, including the cloak, or cape.

Original cover concept for Thulsa's Gate

The was a really cool concept for the book cover. It is unfinished because we decided to go a different direction when we got to this point. You'll be able to see in the next section, how the cover evolved even further.