What is the origin and meaning of Howland's avatar?

Those are secrets best left to those of a small inner circle of trust.

I'm not sure, but it's an image from The book of vile Darkness, I think. I seem to remember seeing it in there anyways. I think it's just basically an illustration for a spell that makes your eyeball go all wonky or something.

Which avatar?

My forum avatar?

My standard DM avatar?

My Christmas Season Santa Claus avatar?

Forum avatar. That guy's totally rockin' out; he doesn't care who knows it.

Oh, I think it's an image from a beholder cultist. And yes he is rocking out.