Back in 1999 Wizards of the Coast offered a promotion to encourage people to teach their friends to play Magic called, "The Guru program". The five lands shown here were included in this program as giveaways. These illustrations depict the phases of a double eclipse transitioning through each of the land cards, beginning with the plains and ending with the swamp. These are some of the most unique and expensive lands available.
When I was commissioned to illustrate this set, I was given a great deal of flexibility as to how I could portray them. The art director basically said, "Just do something that looks cool". For inspiration, I looked at old style medical illustrations, scientific diagrams and ancient maps. I painted each image with acrylic and hints of colored pencil, airbrush and gold leaf.
You can see the details of these transitions within this set of 5 prints. They have continued to be best sellers throughout the years. We're offering a signed set of 5 for $49.95. Each 8.5 x 11" image is printed on archival matte paper and signed in gold. Buy Now!
The art for these basic lands is, without a doubt, my favorite Magic art. I'm sure all your fans would be incredibly interested in an "Extreme Alteration" of these lands. They would look amazing!
Posted by: Aaron | April 04, 2011 at 04:20 PM
I just recently started playing again, and i just bought a full set of these lands! They are absolutely gorgeous. It's fun to think that you can actually get the prints cheaper than the actual cards. :)
Posted by: Morten Lund | March 19, 2012 at 12:54 PM
These artworks are so beautiful! I wonder what happened to the original canvases, they must be an amazing sight!
Posted by: Ariane Nazemi | April 21, 2012 at 06:30 PM