Saturday, September 5, 2009

Owlbear Re-Concept

Inspired by the web-blog of Jon Schindehette, I develped my own concept designs to re-interpret the Dungeons and Dragons classic beast, the Owlbear.
The previous interpretations of the Owlbear have always been a bit silly and I'm excited to see that Wizards of the Coast is actively looking to re-invent this classic monster from the Monster Manual.
My understanding of the Owlbear from the literature has been that it was a freak wizardry accident that had escaped into the wild. The new interpretation appears to be that it is a Fey creature. Either way, its got great potential as a nasty animal, that anyone would be terrified to bump into in a dark corridor.

Working from the description, the Owlbear is a natural creature from the Feywild. I tried to make the creature appear as natural as possible, and not a freak aberation or alien from another world! While at the same time trying to stay true to the previous artwork. I imagine the Owlbear being able to fly, even if only a little. It possesses amazing night vision and hearing of the owl, and ferocious power of a bear. I conceive of several possible variants and breeds including Dire Owlbears, Worg Owlbears, etc.

I hope you enjoy and want to hear your feedback!

Thanks.

M Merissi

© Merissi Studios. All images on this page are copyright to Michael Merissi and Merissi Studios. Any downloading, copying, filesharing, or reproduction of any kind is strictly prohibited by the US copyright Code without prior written consent.

Welcome to Merissi Studios

Greetings, and Welcome to Merissi Studios!
The Art and Illustration of Michael Merissi
This blog is to showcase my illustration and concept work.
There is much more to come as I develop my portfolio and share my new ideas and images as I work on them.

I hope you enjoy and feel free to comment and help as my work grows.

Thanks.

Mike Merissi

Above Image:
Dragon Song
M Merissi ©2009
All images on this site are copyright M Merissi and may not be reproduced or copied in any form without written permission by Merissi Studios.