Druidesses are the spiritual caretakers of the Freespacers (aka Deoradh), and every ship in operation has at least one aboard. They commonly practice numerous rituals, both technical and religious, to interpret the needs and wants of a ship's spirit. In this regard their role is remarkably similar to chief engineers in other cultures.
As with spiritual tenders in other cultures, the Druidess plays a major role in maintaining the mental stability of their families -- the crew. This problem is much more common among the Deoradh than in other cultures, because their nomadic space faring lifestyle often isolates whole vessels for up to decades. By acting as both a spiritual soothsayer and a ship's counselor, they greatly alleviate the problems of long-term isolation.
Their third and most notable role is that of an inquisitor -- They have the authority to execute any Synthetic Intelligence or Deoradh that may be deemed a potential danger to the crew.
Okay. Now that I've set upon Deoradh ships, time for the people! I've been drawing tons of tech lately, but no (good looking) people. So I decided to alleviate that problem. If she seems a bit familiar, you may remember [her predecessor]. One of my first drawings when I was still just learning photoshop and how to work a stylus pad, so low quality compared to what I can do now.
Requesting critique and advice. Not just on their appearance, but my drawing style. Anything out of proportion, or looks particularly bad? Yes, I know its a bit punkish and slightly Gothic. This 'badass' character was supposed to contrast a second more 'good' character I was drawing, but at my current CG rate I won't be finished the second any time soon. Hence I decided to solo post her.
I wanted her to reflect the patchwork nature of the Freespacers, along with their hints at Roma and Pavee (Gypsies and Irish Traveller) culture. I also wanted to aim for something heavily steampunkish to reflect the huge amount of implant technology they use, and something "badass" to reflect the anarchist ideologies of the Free State. Finally throw in some pagan, voodoom and shamanism to cover the religious aspect. All together a strange mix, but fun to draw. ^^