From Disneys depiction of Mulan toStudio GhiblisPrincess Mononoke, female warriors in animated films are undoubtedly legendarybut a rarity.
Women in fantasy art and film are still vastly underrepresented, especially characters that embody diversity.
ArtistYael Nathanseeks to change this.
Shes created an illustrated series of powerful women warriors that represent many shapes, sizes, and skin colors.
Female heroines are often depicted as young, physically fit, and attractive (by society’s standards).
However, Nathans illustrations showcase a far more realistic representation of women.
From an elderly mountain ranger to a curvaceous eagle trainer, each character tells a story.
Every warrior wears their own battle-ready costume and holds their weapon of choice.
Many even have their own animal sidekick, such as one character who rides on a dinosaur.
We recently caught up with Nathan to ask her more about herWarriorsseries.
Read on for My Modern Mets exclusive interview.
When did you first start illustrating?
I started drawing as a kid, like most children.
I just never stopped.
However, throughout my professional career, Ive always drawn and created personal illustrations and comics.
Why do you enjoy illustrating?
I love the ability to easily tell a story with my art.
What inspired your women warriors series?
My own journey to self-acceptance.
Everyone has a journey and we all overcome difficult things.
I spent many years convinced of certain truths about people and saw the world as black and white.
How long have you been working on the series?
Not long, just in the past few months.
But the journey that led me to these characters has taken years.
Are you inspired by any real women in your life?
Or are the characters entirely fictional?
I’m also influenced by various fashion items and weapons.
They help me create a little story I have in mind about the woman Im painting.
Can you describe the backstories of some of the characters?
They dont really have backstories, its more of a general idea of their profession or location.
Her dog is her companion and her guard.
Do you have any new projects you’re working on and would like to share?
Im currently working on a personal comic that is loosely based on the aesthetic of my warrior women.
Ill release it in parts on myInstagramsoon.
it’s possible for you to also see all of my comics with writer Ehud Lavskihere.
