From the Artist
A sequel to my piece Serving the Master, I wanted to draw a very detailed, creepy monster, and tons of cute, chibi kittens. It’s kinda like that SNL “More Cowbell” sketch. Serving the Master is great, but what it really needed was more kittens. So many more kittens. So many kittens that the Ancient One Cthulhu really has no choice but to resign himself to his fate, and hopefully just Hang in There…
More About The Art
Cthulhu, a cosmic entity created by the master of horror fiction, H.P. Lovecraft, has become an icon of the horror genre. Described as a colossal and malevolent being, Cthulhu lies dormant beneath the Pacific Ocean in the sunken city of R’lyeh. Its appearance is beyond human comprehension, with octopus-like features, a massive humanoid body, and writhing tentacles that defy earthly anatomy. Cthulhu is a symbol of cosmic insignificance, representing the terrifying idea that there are forces in the universe far beyond human understanding or control.
Artwork depicting Cthulhu often evokes a sense of dread and awe, with artists drawing inspiration from Lovecraft’s vivid descriptions. These depictions range from intricate illustrations to sculptures and digital art, each capturing the otherworldly essence of the Elder God. The imagery often incorporates elements of marine life, such as swirling currents, oceanic depths, and grotesque sea creatures, emphasizing Cthulhu’s connection to the depths of the ocean and the unknown mysteries of the deep.
Cthulhu’s influence extends beyond literature into various forms of media, including tabletop games, video games, and films, where its terrifying presence continues to captivate audiences. Through art, Cthulhu transcends the boundaries of reality, inviting viewers to confront the unfathomable horrors lurking beyond the veil of existence.
About Paul Bielaczyc
I have been drawing and whatnot since as long as I can remember. Any spot in my school notebooks that didn’t have notes were filled with sketches. I drew mostly from the D&D adventures that my brother ran, as well as the fantasy books I was reading. I did a few pieces based on Terry Brooks’ Shannara series, but focusing on being a nerd, I didn’t have much time for art in high school.
Education
When I got to college I dual majored in Computer Science and Art History. Minoring in Studio Art, I took as many art classes as my schedule allowed. I seemed to be pursuing a career in art or art education, but decided to try graduate school in Computer Science. Graduating in 2004 with a Master’s in CS, but again switched paths and returned to my art interests. Mike, my brother, and I co-own Aradani Studios, a costuming and art company that we founded in 2002. We travel mostly in the Southeast United States, to various conventions and Renaissance Festivals, selling our art, and our ears.
Now
I currently call Nashville, TN my home, and don’t see that changing for quite some time. This is where my friends, my family, and my career is. When I first posted this bio, I said that, “I still have no idea what I want to do with my life.” Well, in those 4 years that I wrote that, I think I have found my calling. At the age of 26, I won the most prestigious fantasy art award there is, the Chesley Award. Mike and I have slowly but steadily grown this business into something that now employs other people! And most importantly, I love what I do, and I truly enjoy being able to talk about my art with people, and have a dialogue with them.
And I owe all of this to my brother. Without him, I don’t know where I would be today, but it wouldn’t be here. And I hope he always remembers that I am grateful to him.
