Inspired by 'The Masque of the Red Death' by Edgar Alan Poe. This character is a harbinger of disease. The exposed muscle should cause the viewer to wonder what hideous face or mask hides under the cowl. The robes are reminiscent of those worn by a priest or monk; something not associated with terror and death; therefore it encourages an eerie atmosphere. The knife is significant toward the end of the story, but here it provides further uncomfortable symbolism.

Originally this was intended as a sketch on which to build a colour painting. However all attempts I’ve made to add colour only seem to spoil it. Sometimes an image is best left alone.

Mike was born and lives in England. He has been working professionally for just three years and runs all aspects of the business by himself.

Mike is well educated in Art & Design and is qualified to Degree level in Illustration. He currently supplies unique artwork to clients throughout the world for use in books, films and games.

Mike has a passion for detail and enjoys capturing atmospheric lighting. Despite his interest in myths and fictitious subjects he tries to harness a sense of realism and history within his art. As a result his work balances on the divide between plausibility and fantasy.