Greetings hivers artists, in this week of the @Splinterlands weekly art contest, I've decided to create the version of the Jicarilla the Rime card from a completely different perspective, merging elements of Halloween, the iconic style of Monster High, and the irreverent elegance of Cruella de Vil. The result is a creation that represents me deeply; a modern, sensual, and powerful sorceress, with a vibrant aesthetic and a magnetic character that moves away from the original design to embrace a bolder and more personal visual narrative.

From the first sketch, my intention was to break with the traditional image of Jicarilla, which usually conveys coldness and mystery through icy tones and a more restrained posture. Instead, my version presents herself as a charming and self-confident young woman, with lush hair that becomes a centerpiece in its own right. Inspired by Cruella, the hair is divided into two contrasting sections: platinum white and jet black, with green, blue, and purple highlights that add dynamism and a festive air. This choice not only adds color but also symbolizes duality, rebellion, and authenticity.

The Halloween hat atop her head is an exaggerated and theatrical piece, with a twisted tip; truly understated and elegant, with a suede-like appearance. This accessory not only reinforces the spirit of the season but also acts as an emblem of power and style. Paired with the crescent moon earrings and the necklace with a shifting crystal, the figure conveys a blend of gothic glamour and youthful magic.

The outfit is another defining element of this version; I opted for a midnight blue corset with leather and lace details, cinched with black ribbons that crisscross the torso and accentuate the silhouette. Paired with a short constellation-print cape and a blue-black feather collar, the ensemble evokes both the mystery of the universe and the sophistication of a supernatural diva. Long velvet gloves, with fingernails that reveal the length of the gloves, complete the look with a touch of enchanting elegance.

As for the creative process, the initial sketch was drawn with soft, expressive lines, seeking to capture the essence of a confident, flirtatious, and powerful young woman. I used a color palette rich in purples, blues, greens, and golds, which not only evoke the Halloween atmosphere but also contrast with the gradient purple background, filled with shooting stars and bat silhouettes. This background was designed to highlight the central figure without distracting, creating a magical and immersive atmosphere.

For the filters and finishes, I applied a slightly grainy texture that simulates traditional strokes on digital canvas, adding warmth and depth. The shadows are carefully crafted to give volume to the hair and corset, while the sparkles on the accessories and the floating pumpkin with blue fire add a touch of fantasy. The contrast between the cool colors of the background and the warm colors of the character creates a visual harmony that invites you to look closely at every detail.

Comparing this version with the original Jicarilla the Rime card, the change is radical. While the original card focuses on a more sober and icy aesthetic, my reinterpretation focuses on exuberance, color, and sensuality. Jicarilla, in my vision, ceases to be a distant enchantress and becomes a relatable, charming, and lively figure. This transformation not only responds to an aesthetic quest, but also to a need to express my own artistic voice, blending influences that inspire and define me.

The style used for this drawing is framed within a Monster High aesthetic, with defined lines, large, expressive eyes, and an attitude that combines flirtatiousness with power. This approach allowed me to play with exaggerated proportions, bright details, and a visual narrative that feels both playful and sophisticated. The character's sensuality isn't presented as something superficial, but as an expression of confidence, authenticity, and inner magic.

In short, this creation represents a celebration of the fantastical, the feminine, and the personal. It's a visual representation that speaks to transformation, style, and identity. Above all, it's a work that has allowed me to enjoy the creative process, connect with my influences, and share a unique version of Jicarilla the Rime that, I hope, will surprise and delight those who see it.

Illustrative Steps

Jicarilla the Frost original version