Two Charizard and one Charmander: three figures painted with acrylics for a collector commission.
I created three cards in three completely different styles for a collector. This project allowed me to explore the full range of possibilities with Pokémon alters: not only boosting a creature’s power, but also revealing its vulnerabilities. Here’s how this trio came together.
First Charizard: Pure Power
Charizard — Full art extension © Céline Combes Alters
The original artwork for this card was created by Ryota Murayama, one of the most prolific illustrators in the Pokémon TCG. His Charizard is a burst of energy: fire, light, and impact. Working on such a masterfully executed piece presented a unique challenge: the digital style of the original is smooth, precise, and devoid of any apparent texture. To capture this spirit with acrylic paint, you need to work with gradual blends, without leaving any visible brushstrokes.
I expanded the composition downward and to the sides: flames on the ground, a night sky streaked with trails of light, and that burst of warm light radiating around Charizard, who is holding an energy ball in his paw. The color palette stays true to the oranges, deep reds, and midnight blue of the original.
Second Charizard: Same Creature, Different Breath
Charizard — Full art extension (foil card) © Céline Combes Alters
The second card is a foil card, which changes everything when it comes to preparation. Before painting, you have to partially strip the surface to reveal the foil where you want it to remain visible. It’s a long and delicate process—sometimes tedious—that sets the stage for everything that follows. The artwork for this version is more ethereal and dynamic. Charizard, in mid-flight with its mouth wide open, spews a jet of fire over a volcanic landscape.
I worked within the same color palette as the previous Charizard, but with a different style: here, the brushstrokes are more visible—it looks more like a painting and less digital. These are two different ways of working on the same creature. I rarely paint on foil, but I was very happy with the result. I also have a slight preference for altering cards that already have a “painted” look.
Charmander: Vulnerability as a Counterpoint
Charmander — Full art extension © Céline Combes Alters
The same collector asked me for a Charmander to complete the trio. This has a completely different feel to it. Charmander is the starter Pokémon—the creature before it gains its full power. I chose to extend the rainy forest setting. In the original illustration, a large leaf serves as an umbrella for him, the wet ground reflects a soft light, and there are raindrops everywhere. It’s calm, almost tender.
The flame at the end of his tail glows discreetly amid the damp greenery. That’s the contrast I love about this kind of project: showing that the amplifier isn’t just for boosting sound. Sometimes it’s used to reveal something more subtle, more fragile.
Charmander (before and after alteration) — Full art extension © Céline Combes Alters
These designs are available on commission. The three cards in this set can be based on these templates or feature a slightly modified design. I’ll select the card version that works best for the painting and provide you with a sketch before I begin. Prices vary depending on complexity. Some card versions have a higher purchase cost, which may affect the final price. Please feel free to contact me for a quote.