Sooo here are my W.I.P.'s of my "Aviator Dreams" piece. It's 12x12 and definitely reflects my recent obsession with water! As of right now I'm happy with it, although I like images with much more contrast; I've come to terms with the fact that this particular one doesn't call for any darker or blackened areas so this level of contrast fits...

Currently I'm working on an actual underwater image that Tommy took with an underwater disposable I bought... I need to find more people to use for reference images. I'd love to have more diversity when it comes to the portraits I create and would very much prefer to not actually have a portfolio of self-portraits. Luckily there's no view of the face in the next one. =)

Back Piece Portrait

I created this affected self-portrait as an experiment. At first, I simply wanted to see what I would look like with an angel wings back piece; however as I drew the piece became more of an experiment of of contrast and gradient control.

It's been FAR too long since I spent my time drawing pencil or charcoal portraits and I intended to create some things that are more self-expressive than anything I've been exploring for classes. After all this time I've finally reverted back to what I first fell in love with drawing, this will be my direction...

Not entirely sure if this piece is done. Aside from merely having perfectionist and self-doubt issues, and although I'm very pleased with the contrast, I think the detail in the feathers needs work. There isn't enough.