Drew Gabriel from Ultrakill

Hey fellow artists and Ultrakill fans! I've been getting a lot of questions about how I approach creating fan art, especially for characters as epic as Gabriel. So, I wanted to share a bit about my process and what went into making my Archangel painting and 3D renders. When tackling an armored angel-like character like Gabriel, the first thing I focus on is studying the original design. Those distinctive glowing wings and the intricate blue and gold architecture found in the game environment are huge sources of inspiration. I spent a lot of time analyzing how light interacts with his metallic armor and those vibrant wing membranes. For the 3D render, getting the metallic sheen just right on his armor and swords (the yellow sword and blue sword are key visual elements!) was crucial. I experimented with different materials and lighting setups to capture that in-game feel. For the 2D illustration side, my goal was to bring a more painterly quality while still retaining the character's iconic look. I loved playing with the stylized sky background and adding subtle cloud details and a halo symbol to emphasize his angelic nature. One of the biggest challenges was conveying the sheer power and presence of Gabriel. I often start with gesture sketches to get the dynamic pose right, then build up layers for the armor and fabric. The contrast between the cool blues and warm golds in his design is something I always try to highlight. If you're looking to create your own Ultrakill Archangels painting or render, here are a few tips based on my experience: Reference is King: Gather as many screenshots and concept art pieces of Gabriel as you can. Pay attention to small details like the engravings on his armor or the specific glow of his wings. Understand the Mood: Ultrakill has a very specific aesthetic. Think about the intensity, the speed, and the dramatic lighting. Try to infuse that into your art. Layering for Depth: Especially in 2D painting, building up layers for armor, skin, and effects like glowing wings can add incredible depth and realism. Color Palette: Stick to the game's iconic color palette. The blues, golds, and reds are instantly recognizable. Don't be afraid to push the saturation a bit to match the game's vibrant energy. Experiment with Mediums: Whether you prefer digital painting, traditional art, or 3D modeling, each offers unique ways to interpret Gabriel. Don't be afraid to mix and match techniques, like I did with combining 3D renders and 2D illustrations. Creating art for Ultrakill characters is incredibly rewarding. I hope this peek into my creative process helps inspire some of you to pick up your digital brushes or modeling software and bring your own Archangel visions to life!