The Elemental Realms - Sigils - From Snacuum Design

No more do you traverse worlds known to you, instead entire realms devoted to the forces that bind the universe itself.

The Elemental Realms - Fantastical places where everything is touched by the primal natures of the Eight Elements: Life - Fire - Water - Earth - Air - Darkness - Light - Energy

Our hero travels the Realms, learning of the rules and cultures within, battling mighty foes, and overcome challenges in pursuit of their quest. They discover a power inherent to the elements and prove themselves worthy of having it bestowed. Each Realm is heralded by champions who proudly display the Sigils: symbols representing an Elements place in the universe. They are the signs of sacred meaning, adorning the gates and cathedrals of their cities, and the shields of their knights.

Inspired by mythological concepts of the forces of nature, and the supposed magical significance. Intended for enriching the worlds of fantasy/sci-fi film, literature, and video games with forests, volcanoes, and lakes presided over by great gods and monsters, or as the foundation of magic spells, potions and enchantments.

DESIGN STRATEGY

Each Sigil may have a unique visual identity, but all eight are part of a single set-piece of art. The value of each element is codified by its inclusion in a pantheon. To create this sense of unity, I applied Three Rules during production of each one.

Rule 1 - Symmetry

Symmetry creates a strong sense of balance for a symbols design. Grounding it with the weight of legendary significance. A similar pattern is found in mythological and religious symbols: the Cross, the Dharma, the Yin-Yang, the Trefoil etc.
A vertical or rotational symmetry is present in each Sigil.

Rule 2 - Classic Semiotics

Throughout history through to modern day, simple symbols were used to identify and communicate elements and their properties. No matter abstractly the Sigils could be designed - they must reference what they are: the water droplet, the flame, the lightning bolt.

Vector Image of a 'No Lighting Fires' Sign

Vector Image of a Electrical Danger Sign

Vector Image of the Classic Alchemical Symbol for 'Earth'

Rule 3 - Scientific Imagery

Envisioned to support the lore of a Sci-fi or Science-fantasy world, where main ingredient is indeed science. I imbued each Sigil with imagery found in diagrams, charts, keys, or depictions of the forces and structures too big, or too small, to comprehend. Some might recognise the shapes found in DNA, weather maps, atomic models or the patterns of light.

ENSEMBLE

While each Sigil can be used on its own, they were designed to be read as belonging in a group.
As an ensemble, they form a set of symbols that tie together the spaces between them and represent the balance of elemental forces bound within the universe.