Metal & Dirt

Hoy! I'm Mathieu

Let me introduce you a personal project on which I have been working during my free time

The original idea behind Metal and Dirt was to build a world from scratch in which I could tell stories

I started experimenting with Character Design, sketching Viridian years ago, then Heliodor. Many more characters are already written but are still yet to be designed.

Viridian is a young man born without arms. He is nonetheless capable of moving objects around with his magic.

He was found when he was a baby by Scarlet—a Blacksmith—who decided to raise him as her own child.

Aware that her son became quickly concerned for the well-being of the village and its people, Scarlet forged special gloves which would help Viridian to defend the village.

Viridian also loves going on journeys, gathering ressources for the village and informations from the surrounding world, and telling stories of his adventures to his mother.

Heliodor is a boy capable of commanding the earth beneath his feet.

He is younger than his friend Viridian, whom he admires.

They make a great team, although Viridian will not admit it since he doesn't like to put Heliodor in dangerous situations.

Heliodor is often covered in dust and always wanders around barefoot—it helps his power. Although his raw power is destructive, Heliodor always tries to use it in order to protect the people around him.

Even during emergencies, he tries to shape his magic in a beautiful manner. This pursuit of beauty is inspired by the Village Sculptor's work.

As I was writting the characters of Viridian and Heliodor, the world built itself around them.

The more I studied environment and perspective during my spare time, the more it became clear to me that the best way to show my project was with illustrations that could convey a whole story through a single picture.

There is still a long road ahead of me and so many things to learn and experiment, but it is with great pleasure that I am sharing with you a glimpse of this world that is gradually coming to life!

Thank you!