From the Artist
A piece from my World of the Dark Return for the Sagaborn RPG, the nomad is a wylder mage who is more at home in the Wastes than in a city.
More About The Art
Michael Bielaczyc’s Wasteland Nomad is a striking piece of post-apocalyptic fantasy art, blending gritty survivalism with a dreamlike, surreal landscape. The character depicted is a hardened wanderer, standing against a stark, alien sunset with two suns casting an eerie glow over the barren wasteland. The muted, dusty pinks and purples of the background create an almost otherworldly feel, emphasizing the harsh yet strangely beautiful nature of this world.
The nomad’s design is both rugged and practical, with layered and tattered clothing that suggests a life of hardship. Their patchwork armor and reinforced knee guards indicate a combat-ready survivor, while the scarf and cap offer protection from the elements. The vibrant green hair provides a striking contrast, hinting at either a mutation, a dyeing ritual, or something more mystical.
They wield a makeshift polearm, its blade jagged and curved like a scavenged relic, a weapon built for both survival and battle. A dagger is strapped to their chest, reinforcing their preparedness. Their expression is one of quiet resilience—sharp eyes scanning the horizon for either threats or opportunities.
The background’s minimalist, almost dreamlike style contrasts with the detailed character, giving a sense of vast emptiness, as if the world has been abandoned or reshaped by some great catastrophe. The combination of futuristic elements, post-apocalyptic gear, and a nomadic aesthetic makes this character feel like a lone wanderer in a dying or transforming world.
This piece fits well within Bielaczyc’s Dark Return setting, possibly suggesting a survivor navigating the ruins of a fallen civilization, a relic hunter, or a warrior with a forgotten past.
About Michael Bielaczyc
Michael Bielaczyc has been working professionally in the art field since 2001 when he founded Aradani Studios with his brother Paul. Together they have exhibited across America selling both their artwork and costuming. He works in many mediums from oil paint to latex prosthetics, video to graphite.
In 2012, Michael started Lone Wanderer Entertainment with his long time friend Dane Clark Collins to publish books based in their dark fantasy world – Atheles. Since then he has authored 4 books and created the SagaBorn RPG system.
