MTG-Grizzled Outcasts (2011)
Side A
Grizzled Outcasts is available as an artist proof card here.
It’s always a fantastic surprise to be a part of the first wave of a new Magic: the Gathering block. For the uninitiated, each year, Magic’s sets each explore a usually unique storyline and theme set somewhere in Magic’s Multiverse. Essentially, this allows for a frequent reboot of the story and visual style of a phenomenally creative game. Occasionally I’ve been given inside hints as to the genre or theme of a coming story arc, but I’ve never been privy to concept art beforehand, for instance--even when I’ve known the illustrators involved.
But when I’ve had the privilege of being on the first set of a new story, which might run 2-3 sets in a row, checking out the style guide for it is always a ton of fun. Not only is there great art in it, but great possibilities, and the knowledge that if I am able to participate in more of the block, I’ll be living in the world for many months. It’s just enough time to marinade in it and absorb it, but not enough to get bored before the game is off to the next thing.
