Recently, I oppened up a few spots for custom commission digital paintings. One of the prompts was so much fun to work on, I knew I had to share it. The client suggested a video game mash up with Star Wars' BB8 character. I've been playing a lot of the Legend of Zelda's Tears of the Kingdom game lately, so it seemed like a good place to start brainstorming. I thought, "What would the Zelda games be like if you played as BB8 instead of Link?" 

I decided to imagine dropping BB8 into the world of Hyrule.The background is a recreation from a scene in the game. The castle in the background, the rocky cliffs and pathway, and the trees as we emerge from the forest. Rather than having BB8 appear in the environment, I wanted him to have a more active role. I chose to make him the actor of my piece. I chose to have him holding up the master sword in a triumphant pose. No Zelda game is complete without the Master Sword and shield, so I was sure to include those iconic pieces from the games. He has found the Master Sword and Master Shield, so he's ready to battle Ganon!

When I showed my client the piece, he requested I add Navi the fairy in it. I loved this idea! Initially, I thought the same thing, but I wasn't sure since Navi hasn't been in any of the recent Zelda games. I think adding the sometimes annoying fairy ("Hey, listen!") was a great addition. 

When I named the piece, I chose the name "Master Droid" because it plays off the names of the Master Sword and Master Shield. What mash up should I do next? Let me know in the comments below! 

This piece is available in prints and on a variety of merchandise like totes and mugs.