Shaman

Photoshop CS3, Intuos3, probably 30+ hours
Progress steps on my Artstation: www.artstation.com/artwork/rNq…

I've been fascinated recently with the culture of the Saami, who are the native people of Scandinavia (not unlike the Indians for the Americas). A Saami shaman was a spiritual guide able to traverse the hidden realms, inhabited by the spirits of the dead, the spirits of nature and gods. A shaman's drum was not only used to help induce the trance-like state needed to communicate with the spirits but was also a kind of map used for predictions. Each drum is inscribed with different characters and is unique to its owner. 
As with any pagan culture I find it utterly inspiring how different everyday "rituals" gain a huge spiritual significance in a certain context - such as music, or the communication and relationship with animals.

Big thanks to everyone who helped me along the process with tips and critique.

Submitting it to 's awesome Best of 2017 contest. Go and submit your own best work of 2017, too!
EDIT*: I won!