The Normandy Reborn

I started this fan art in 2022 and finally brought it back to life, and it turns out to be quite literally like the Normandy SR2 in the second game. I also want to share my thoughts about BioWare, how much they mean to me, and my 12-year journey, specifically how Mass Effect impacted my life.

For me, this art became an opportunity to look back. It all started from the moment my future husband inspired me to play Mass Effect for the very first time. This game didn't just define my path as a concept artist; it gave me vital strength for years. Every year I grew professionally, and under the influence of this universe, my own personal projects began to appear. And every single fan art was an exciting challenge for me.

One of those challenges became my lifeline. I was working on a fan art of Cora Harper when I lost my dad. At that exact darkest moment, the fan art file corrupted and broke, but luckily, an early backup was saved. I forced myself to pull it together and finish the piece, as creating it helped me cope. And after I posted it, something incredible happened: Ben Lo, the Senior Concept Artist at BioWare whose work I had always looked up to, reached out to me personally. Later, I won a BioWare contest with this artwork. It felt like a beautiful dream. This contest helped me meet amazing artists from all over the world, and we have been keeping in touch ever since.

When BioWare's official account followed me and started sharing my work, words still cannot express how much it means to me. All those moments were absolutely the best. I have always truly believed in this company and dreamed of one day becoming a part of this phenomenal team.

The news of BioWare closing down has completely broken my heart. Right now, my thoughts and emotions are all over the place. It's so hard to process, and I deeply feel for everyone who worked there. My heart goes out to you all.

BioWare, thank you for everything you've done for me and for millions of players. Mass Effect is so much more than just a game. N7 will always be a special day thanks to you. I refuse to believe this is the end of the story. I will always keep hoping for the best.

Keelah se'lai.
It's been a good ride... the best.