Glad you didnt take my crits too seriously. I am very critical, even if something can be considered a style (this could be a downfall of my crits). But never’the’less, it does make people aware of such things they invent into their work. In a way you could have been influenced by that artist to create angular lines. This reminds me a little of cubism, where angles create the figure.
I’m glad to see you are keeping this updated, my sketchbook has gone a stray for sometime now. When I get my new desktop I am hoping I will gain interest in illustration again.
As for crits, some more if you dont mind!
The first problem I see here is the amount of value been used at such an early stage. If this was traditionally done, how would you make corrections to teh composition and the places where the values are the strongest?
The eyes, nose, mouth set-up is off somewhat. Lets see if I can find the culprit.
I think its her right eye, it seems to flick slightly out of position. Maybe lower the angle somewhat and it could fix it. Maybe less pronounce the lips too, maybe? Its kinda tough without experimenting.
Also the faces shape in general seems slightly too sculpted, maybe more ridges?
I hope you dont mind these ‘hardcore’ crits.
I will avoid the horny guy, as you already mentioned it was just a doodle.
I’m a contrast addict, I seem to need contrast or high value in all works. This one is no different. Even though it is just a background, it seems ‘too’ flat, as if its a creature flying past a painting. Maybe gradual transition from high value to low value?
As for the bat creature, the tale seems off. It seems to have no anatomy, give it a feel of gravity involving movement. If its the muscles that are whipping the tail from side to side, give the curves extra exaggeration, as if its been whipped from one side to the other.
I am a strong believer that every image needs a character. And sadly right now this one is stale when it comes to character. It could be to do with teh way the colours are used and how teh values are mixed. And sometimes it can be about the lighting, composition, motion, figures.
Also I believe there is an interference when it comes to the focus point. Sure you have the correct values in place, but, the cavern below is far too low in value, it matchs the furthest background. And because it is white (low creamed orange value), it catches the eye far too much. Just had another look at it and just noticed its a river, I thought it was a cavern with mist.
Hmm, it can be difficult to gain the right balance when you add water, because its reflections interupt the harmony in a picture because it reflects quite a bit of the lightest colour. This viewpoint may not give you the flexability to balance the values enough.
I hope some of my ramblings was of some help.
Wow, there is some great stuff here, and your progress is inspiring! I really look forward to seeing your updates.
HEY …Demented…
