The Oceans Glitter with Thieves and Fortunes…
…welcome to the lands of Reyth. The heart of the kingdoms is known as the Gilded Coast: a crossroads of powerful nations, trade empires, opportunistic smugglers, and the last whispers of old magic. This worldbuilding project has grown exponentially — and seen me grow a good deal in turn — since I embarked upon it over five years ago. Enjoy glimpses into my creative process as I explore the Gilded Coast and some of the creatures that call it home.
The Gilded Coast of Reyth. 2021, digital.
Excerpt from a Reythen Beastiary. 2021, digital.
Early Gilded Coast Mapmaking Collage. 2018-19, digital.
On Process
When designing a world, everything is a question. Most my processes begin with a “huh, how would that look?” moment. I work best when free to backtrack, connect, and re-find my ideas — nothing is sacred or above amendment. I enjoy basing my designs on historically inspired precedents, such as in cartographic fashion styles.
The Origins of the World. 2021, digital.
The Northwestern Gilded Coast. 2022, digital.
Vanorian Fashion Exploration. 2020, graphite on paper, 9 x 11.5”.