This is the Akkorokamui. I created this cryptid creature / monster art for Fairytales and Myths.
The Akkorokamui is an octopoid sea monster from the folklore of the Ainu of Japan.
I especially enjoyed illustrating this creature due to my love for the Japanese culture. I worked especially hard on the hair-fish and making the hip and leg seamlessly transform into a tentacle. The concept was that the viewer might not immediately realize she’s the creature itself until they noticed these details.
Check out the Akkorokamui page for more details.