Asgard Delivery Inc.

It’s done! He’s finally here. My first attempt at painting the mischievous squirrel of Yggdrasil, a rather quick feat might I add. I just needed a break from the usual themes and subject matter; painting the gods or folkloric figures can be a lot of fun but can also be quite taxing as there is a lot to take into consideration.

Anyway, I decided to try something a little different by venturing into the realm of animism - something which people love and adore. Combining the lore of Ratatoskr with elements of animism made this particular painting really fun and enjoyable to paint. No detailed backgrounds or over-the-top eye-candy at which to marvel - just good ole imagination and whimsy.

Ratatoskr has his role in Scandinavian folklore as simply a messenger; a runner of Yggdrasil, delivering messages between the Great Eagle atop the World Tree and the root-dwelling serpent Níðhöggr. As a trickster and prankster, his mischievousness does not equate malice - with the intent to cause harm - but rather an indication of playfulness; a zestful squirrel with an excitable streak.

Most people think he does things out of spite - to orchestrate chaos - which comes across as a deliberate mischaracterisation of Ratatoskr’s playful nature to perpetuate a commonly held belief of deep-seated ill will. He is simply a messenger, tasked to deliver messages, which he does with fervor and diligence .

It’s great to ponder about his role; but for now, let’s move on to the process.

https://substack.com/home/post/p-175906272

You can also purchase the painting here.

https://artofnealerundgren.artstation.com/store/art_posters/n6DpV/asgard-delivery-inc