Maria Balan is the winner of our most recent showcase challenge with her unique tribal-looking sidekick that “brings the night and can switch heads with his pet”. Maria is a graphic artist who takes on projects involving illustration, animation, painting and engraving. It’s not only her winning sidekick that we love, but also her uploads to DA + instagram. Her distinct style is reminiscent of ancient hieroglyphics by utilizing simple shapes and patterns and draws characters that have particularly exaggerated features.