Early Atlantean Warriors - Design Process

I'm currently still working on the story Rise of the Atlanteans. While working on my world-building project, which I'm envisioning as an art book that will connect my fantasy stories, history, and lore of this world, I've come back to the designs for the Atlantean warriors.

This time I wanted to design more distinct characters - especially their armor. The first design on the left is a warrior "anchored in history" with realistic armor. The second in the middle is in plate armor that should symbolize sea shells. The third on the right is inspired by Meso-American cultures such as the Aztecs, Mayans, or Incas.

Whenever I design characters, I always draw from real history and this is an example of how I combined the warriors of the Sea Peoples, Mycenaeans, American "Indians" with a touch of fantasy. All Atlantean designs are connected by a sea theme. You can see all the references, inspirations, and my older designs in the video.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TmY1YoYdiY

Don't forget to check out my worldbuilding series, where I talk about stories, history, and character designs in each episode.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XQ1oOs7I84I&t

More on my Youtube or Patreon:
https://www.patreon.com/merulla