Explore MtG art: Cynthia Sheppard

Cynthis Sheppard debuted in Magic with a single card in 2011’s Innistrad set. Since then she has gone on not only to illustrate other magic cards, she has also worked for Wizards as an art director, bringing new artists into the game.

The artist with her art

This picture was taken in 2013, showing Cynthia with a copy of Young Pyromancer, more on that card later.

Cynthia Sheppard art: six of the best

Archangel of Tithes by Cynthia Sheppard

This art from Magic Origins has an interesting twist; this angel’s headgear was later worn by the planeswalker Liliana Vess after the angel fell to Liliana’s zombie horde.

Meren of Clan Nel Toth by Cynthia Sheppard

This illustration was used for a special Secret Lair collection to mark International Womens’ Day in 2020.

Rubinia Soulsinger by Cynthia Sheppard

Not, as you might think from the art, Rubinia Soulsigner.

Emeria Angel by Cynthia Sheppard

Zendikar’s angels later discovered they had accidentally devoted themselves to the Eldrazi. Like Greg Staples, Cynthia Sheppard has illustrated some memorable angels. Also like Greg Staples, her art consists of much more than this.

Wind Dancer by Cynthia Sheppard

This wasn’t an especially remarkable creature the first time round, but when a reprint appeared illustrated by Cynthia Sheppard, it became a card I’ll never forget. I do believe it’s the eyes.

Young Pyromancer by Cynthia Sheppard

It’s not so easy to tell from the card itself, but Cynthia Sheppard deliberately drew this pyromancer as a Chandra Nalaar fan. He has her picture around his neck, a knock-off copy of her* goggles, and his clothes are as similar as can be. he also summons elementals, just like (some versions of) Chandra!

*okay, Jaya Ballard’s goggles that Chandra took.

Further exploration: Cynthia Sheppard around the web

The cards

Click the image above to see all cards illustrated by Cynthia Sheppard on Scryfall

Prints

Visit Inprnt to see prints of Cynthia Sheppard’s art, from Magic and beyond.

Website

Visit Cynthia’s website for great images of her art and information about the artist.

Social media

Cynthia Sheppard has a presence Instagram

YouTube

Here’s a video of Cynthia answering viewer questions on her YouTube channel.

Further exploration: Magic beyond Cynthia Sheppard

Click any of the images below to explore other artists