The Oracle

Illustration Inspired by "Moby-Dick" and "2001: A Space Odyssey"

The Oracle is a unique and captivating illustration that combines elements from the classic novel "Moby-Dick; or The White Whale" and the iconic monolith from the film "2001: A Space Odyssey". Designed by Tsutomu Kitazawa, this artwork transcends human wisdom and portrays a mighty deity that brings progress and ushers in a new era.

Kitazawa explains that the inspiration for The Oracle came from the majestic presence of the whale in "Moby-Dick" and the mythical aura surrounding it. By projecting the monolith onto Moby Dick, Kitazawa creates a powerful character that is considered an almighty being and a messenger from the Gods. This character symbolizes the dawn of a new civilization and the transformative leap forward in evolution.

The Oracle is part of a high fantasy video game, set in a world where The Day Of Moby Dick occurs once every several centuries. The messengers from the Gods visit this land, signaling a new future and blessing the inhabitants. While this event causes the collapse of the current civilization, it paves the way for a new era to rise from the destruction. Each land in this world has its own unique customs, deeply rooted in traditions, folklore, and history, offering the potential for rich and immersive gameplay experiences.

Using Adobe Photoshop 2020 and a technique called photo bashing, Kitazawa brings The Oracle to life. The artwork is created through a combination of hand-drawn elements and digital manipulation, resulting in a visually stunning and intricate composition.

The Oracle has garnered recognition and acclaim, receiving the Bronze A' Design Award in the Graphics, Illustration, and Visual Communication Design category in 2021. This prestigious award honors designs that showcase creativity, resourcefulness, and technical excellence, contributing to improvements in quality of life and making the world a better place.

With The Oracle, Tsutomu Kitazawa has successfully captured the essence of two iconic works and created a visually striking illustration that invites viewers to explore a world of fantasy and imagination.