Q) What artistic roles do you like to perform (i.e., inker, penciler, computer colorer, painter)?
A) I enjoy concept and environment design the most. I primarily work on DnD related art such as backgrounds, monsters, and story based scenes. My strengths lie in creating mood, atmosphere, and detailed compositions.
Q) What styles/genres do you create in?
A) My art style is rooted in fantasy and adventure mostly inspired by DnD worlds. I focus on lighting, storytelling, and environment design to make each piece feel alive and immersive.
Q) How did you get your start in art, and what was the first project that made you feel like a professional?
A) I started by creating maps and scenes for my friends’ DnD campaigns. The moment I saw my art being used in an actual game session, I realized this was something I wanted to pursue seriously as a professional.
Q) Where would you like to see yourself in five years with your art?
A) I hope to be recognized within the DnD and tabletop community for my world building and illustration work, and to publish my own artbook featuring original environments, monsters, and fantasy concepts
Q) What do you feel is the most important thing a person should take from a piece of art?
A) Emotion and story. Art isn’t just meant to be seen it should make you feel something. That emotional connection is what gives it power.
Q) Do you have a specific creative process when working on a piece of art?
A) Yes, I usually start by deciding the story and mood first, then move into rough thumbnails and layout sketches. Once the base is clear, I focus on lighting and details to give the piece a cinematic, story driven feel.
Q) What are your primary inspirations when creating art?
A) DnD campaigns, fantasy novels, and nature are my biggest sources of inspiration. I love imagining mythical creatures and worlds that feel alive and full of history.
Q) Do you have any favorite artists whose techniques you study?
A) I deeply admire Craig Mullins and Raphael Lacoste for their mastery of lighting and environment storytelling. Their work inspires much of my creative approach
Q) What would your dream project be? Are there any mainstream projects you’d love to work on?
A) My dream project would be creating official world art for DnD or Pathfinder. I’d also love to illustrate my own fantasy short story one day.
Q) If people want more information about you or to request a commission, where should they go?
A) People can contact me on Bluesky at https://bsky.app/profile/neil-reed.bsky.social , or directly through this email. I’m active on both and always open to new creative collaborations
Final Four Questions
Q) When the zombies take over the world, where will you be?
A) Probably sketching quietly in the ruins of an old DnD tavern.
Q) What is your favorite fandom?
A) DnD and the fantasy world without a doubt.
Q) What piece of art do you think people must experience before they die?
A) “The Wanderer Above the Sea of Fog” it always reminds me of adventure, imagination, and the vastness of the unknown
Q) Give one fact that most people wouldn’t believe about you.
A) I’m actually an introvert, but once the topic turns to art. I can talk endlessly
Paper Phoenix ink 