COYA Concept Art

COYA tells the story of a young Inca girl who is sacrificed after the death of her father, the emperor. Following her death, she awakens in the afterlife, and must embark on a long journey through the spirit realm to reach Hanan Pacha, or Heaven.

Throughout her journey, Coya encounters different spirits who put her through unique tests that will prove to the Gods whether or not she is worthy of entering Hanan Pacha. As she travels through the realm, Supay, the God of Death, stalks her every move, attempting to deter her progress and remaining prepared to snatch her to the realm of Uku Pacha, the Underworld, if she fails just once.

COYA is based on true events that took place during the reign of the Inca empire, where after the death of important figures or after natural disasters, the Incas would perform Capacocha— a significant ritual where children of high status and beauty were sacrificed as offerings to the Gods. The children were given feasts and gifts to support their journey through the afterlife, and they were often sacrificed on high mountain peaks. Their journey up the mountain would take days, where the children were often drugged to reduce the pain of the altitude and to numb the effects of the harsh climate, which they would eventually be left in to die.

COYA is an original concept that was chosen to become a short, senior film at the Savannah College of Art and Design, and is directed by me. All concept art shown below was illustrated and designed by me.