Black Alpha Legion
Color and paint schemes

Recently, at Art-W Studio, we completed a project that took us to explore the dark corners of the Horus Heresy. We worked on an Alpha Legion band, specifically inspired by the Effrit Stealth Squad, and we couldn’t be prouder of the result. This band is composed of one Lieutenant Phobos, three Eliminators, three Suppressors, ten Infiltrators and one Librarian Phobos, all miniatures that we painted and assembled the miniatures with great dedication.
The color scheme was one of the most exciting aspects of this project. We focused on an absolute black for the armor, detailing it with dark metallic trim that stands out in the gloom. The brown leather elements add an extra layer of texture and realism, while the white capes of the Suppressors and Librarian contrast dramatically, evoking the snowy landscape in which these units operate.
We worked on the painting the Warhammer and bases at game level, ensuring that each miniature not only looks stunning on the board, but is also practical and durable for game play. The bases for this miniatures, set in an icy environment, complete the visual narrative, perfectly integrating these warriors in their cold and desolate battlefield.
One of the most interesting particularities of this project is the choice of miniatures. Although we represented an Alpha Legion unit, we used Loyalist Primaris miniatures, which allowed us to accurately capture the stealthy and deadly essence of the Effrit Stealth Squad. This project has been a fascinating experience, and we are thrilled to share the result with the community.

Project

✻ Warhammer 40k

✻ Black Alpha Legion

✼ Painting

✻ Basing

Black Alpha Legion Color and paint schemes

Customer briefing

Reviving the Horus Heresy: Our Alpha Legion Project

Our client came to us after researching several options in the miniature painting world, looking for a studio capable of capturing the dark and stealthy atmosphere of the Alpha Legion. From the first contact, he was clear on what he wanted: a complete Effrit Stealth Squad inspired band, with a color scheme that reflected the stealth and lethality of these warriors.
He asked us for a game-level paint job that captured the essence of the Horus Heresy, focusing on all-black armor, decorated with dark metallic trim. In addition, he stressed the importance of white capes for the Suppressors and Librarian, making sure they would blend in perfectly with the snowy environment in which these units fight. He also asked us to take special care with the detailing of the bases, to maintain visual consistency with the winter theme.
This assignment represented an exciting challenge, as the client gave us the opportunity to experiment with a color scheme that had to be both functional on the board and true to the rich history of the Alpha Legion.

Photo of the project Game level

Schemes and Stealth: The Artistic Direction Behind Alpha Legion

The process of creating this Alpha Legion band was meticulous and very rewarding. We started by checking each miniature already assembled, making sure there were no burrs or flaws that could affect the result. Once ready, we prepared a sample miniature with its base, so that the client could give his approval before continuing with the rest of the project.
With the approval in hand, we moved forward with all the miniatures at the same time, applying a black primer and working with airbrush to achieve the lights on the black armor using dark blue desaturated tones. The metallic details and leathers were added with precision, and the faces and lenses were defined with oil techniques, providing a realistic and dark touch.
Finally, we tackled the bases, designing them with a snowy texture that perfectly complements the white capes of the Librarian and the Suppressors. Everything was executed at game level, prioritizing an impressive and functional visual finish. Photos of every stage of the process were sent to the client, keeping them informed and ensuring that every detail met their expectations. The result was a stunning band, coherent with the atmosphere of the Horus Heresy.

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