Author @jmleebooks approached me with a clear vision: Melinda, a central figure in The Londinium Saga, needed to embody both power and haunting mysticism. My task was to create an illustration that worked as a striking standalone piece and a faithful reflection of her role in the story.We began with rough sketches to shape her expression, structure, and aura — focusing on mood before detail. A lot of trial and error until we settled on the right features for her. Once approved, we began to refine them and with the help of gradient masks, we layered colors so they highlight her fiery nature. Adding the third eye and spectral figures deepened her supernatural presence.The final illustration portrays Melinda bathed in flame, with an unwavering gaze. Her braids, adorned with white roses, contrast her intensity with a touch of softness, a duality at the heart of her character. The spectral figures around her whisper of her power, while the fire pulls us into her world and feelings.

For much of my life, my journey has felt like walking through an intricate maze — a path of twists, dead ends, and hidden truths. I came to realize that this maze wasn’t something to escape, but something to explore. Every turn revealed a deeper part of myself, and in that labyrinth of emotions I found the strength to reshape pain and vulnerability into something extraordinary: my art.I’m Maze, the artist behind Mazephoria. I create dark-fantasy characters that feel alive — haunted, tender, cruel, or soft in the same breath. With over 5 years of experience and clients across the US, UK, Norway, and beyond, I focus on emotional storytelling through color, pose, and light.I believe every character has a soul, every story deserves to be told, and every detail matters. From the glint of determination in a hero’s eyes to the intricate details of their design, my goal is to capture the essence of who they are and breathe life into them on canvas.When you commission me, you’re getting more than an illustration. Together, we’ll shape your vision into artwork that resonates deeply, not just with you and your characters, but with the stories they carry.