Derby Style Valkyrie (wings, fire, speed, strength, tough woman, skulls) by Natalie Bruns

This illustration shows a fiery roller derby-jammer at full speed, ready to dominate the rink. Her red hair and roller skates are literally on fire, while powerful black wings sprout from her shoulders. As if she has just descended from the afterlife. She is reminiscent of a Valkyrie: a female warrior from Nordic mythology who escorts fallen heroes to Valhalla. Valkyries symbolise strength, fighting spirit and independence. Exactly what this derby player exudes. With clenched fists, a fierce gaze and an attitude full of vigour, she is the epitome of modern female strength.

The combination of red quad roller skates with stars, green stockings, knee pads with skulls and a black outfit full of movement gives this work a bold, punkish look. The background is rough and ochre yellow, giving it a vintage texture. The flames and smoke suggest not only speed, but also unstoppable energy.

This artwork is a bold and powerful statement for anyone who lives and breathes derby.

Roller derby is a fast-paced, physical team sport played on roller skates (quads) on an oval track. Two teams of five players each compete against each other in short rounds of play, called "jams".
Each team has one "jammer" (identified by a star on its helmet) who can score points by overtaking opponents on the track. The other players are "blockers" and try to help their own jammer and stop the opponent's jammer. This is done by strategic pushing, blocking and positioning.
The sport is intense, tactical and spectacular, with a strong sense of community and often a distinctive, punk-like culture surrounding it. It is mainly played by women, but there are also mixed and men's matches.

Conceived by Natalie and visualised by Artificial Intelligence.