Greetings!

Another month, another Menmar Monthly Art! Menmar completes 5 years since the first time I published it, and I’ve been using those illustrations as way for you to get to know more about this universe while I get some other projects done before coming back to it!

This series will continue at full speed ahead, with the Month of Nemek being illustrated accordingly. This month is also a special one because it overlaps with another tradition of mine (and of the digital art community as a whole): Mermay!

For those that aren’t aware, MerMay consists on drawing merfolk-themed pieces throughout the entire month of May! You can find many suggested MerMay prompt lists on Instagram, DeviantArt and other social media websites which host artistic communities.

Some artists, due to work-life balance, prefer to either do weekly pieces or create a whole piece weeks ahead and post it as the days go by. Others prefer to do it daily as a test to both their mettle and agility. Either way, MerMay is a great way to showcase your talent and meet other fellow artists’ works!

The Month of Nemek

The Month of Nemek corresponds to May in real-life/Gregorian calendar; it is preceded by the Month of Ameroz and followed by the Month of Guwshut, which makes Nemek the Midsummer Month and also the Month of High Tides.

Oceanic wildlife abounds, and the seas and rivers bring many merchants with them; Nemek holds a special tariff reduction and tax leniency during the entire month – some in Azoria say that this was due a peasant rebellion of centuries past, but none seem to be able to confirm that.

Merfolk sightings are commonly reported during this time. Nemek nights hold an unusual shine on watery bodies, and some claim that this is the Merfolk’s invitation to visit their underwater domains – those that follow the shiny paths often get lost… And never return.

Shellfish and fish scales necklaces are worn by sailors and fishermen as protective charms and tokens – and it is advised to make offerings at the Fire Temples and the Dock Shrines for safe journeys, good winds and bountiful cargo.