Incorporating elements of folklore and mythology adds layers of depth, making the artwork feel like a window into a much larger, cohesive universe.
Understanding these artistic principles can help in appreciating how illustrators use the fantasy genre to push the boundaries of visual storytelling and thematic exploration.
The use of chiaroscuro—the contrast between light and dark—is essential for creating drama and tension, which helps ground fantastical scenarios in a palpable sense of reality.