“Chaos Has Risen” was created as a commissioned piece for an upcoming heavy metal release, based on an existing typhon-inspired monster. The goal was to push the scale in closer, focusing on the creature’s face while showing it actively inflicting chaos on the surrounding scene. Early on, we knew we wanted to experiment with a color palette inspired by classic heavy metal album art, leaning into deep reds, browns, and high-contrast light tones. As the piece developed, the idea of a bright, almost normal daytime sky emerged. That contrast became central to the story (the calm above versus the violent inferno breaking through below). The flames were used intentionally to build movement across the painting, with spiraling, twisting shapes guiding the viewer’s eye throughout the scene. I also pushed depth by lowering contrast in the background figures while keeping the sharpest detail concentrated in the demon’s face, making it the focal point. Oil on Illustration Board - 14"x14" - Completed April 2026