Valtoria

[ThomasR]

Hi fellow mapmakers !

Today, I'm showing you what I think is my best map to this day. At least it's the one I'm the most proud of.

Back in February, I was commissioned to draw a world map for a fresh DND dungeon master who wanted her world to be brought to life. Luckily for me, her first choice, Deven Rue, was booked so, I jumped on the occasion.

Abigail was a delight to work with and was open to changes to her first draft while having a strong drive on what she wanted. We agreed on a 18 x 36 " black and white map which was something pretty intimidating for me (I had only worked once on something bigger and had huge difficulties to finish it at the time). We agreed on a deadline at the end of July and I was sure I could deliver early. But things never go this smoothly. Working on the map I started another black and white project with pretty detailed continents and this fed my work on Valtoria, making it more complex and more varied. And, the cherry on top of the cake, I started playing with colors.

Kids, never play with colors on a commission, I mean it !

I found it so appealing that I had to propose an upgrade to the client. And I felt like a crack dealer giving a free dose before the long fall. I send a quick mock up at a lower size and I was lucky enough for Abigail to give me the go and it made the map even better !

That's why I'd like to thank her and I'm proud to present this map to you. Here comes Valtoria, as charted by Hattam Reyes, Scrivener of the Ancients (*wink wink*).

Valtoria Labels final post.jpg
© Thomas Rey - 2019 - All rights reserved

Also, if you're interested, you can find the prints here and here and, as I always find it a funny thing to compare the final map and the prompt of the client, here is the draft of the client (minus the informations on the campaign) :

IMG_0673.JPG

You already know I like the map but I'm eager to hear your thoughts and critics on it. There's always time to make it better

Cheers !

Thomas