Traditional drawing advice!

Okay soo, I drew an Appaloosa today and I'm actually really proud of it. I'd really like some critique on how to improve! (I'll be redrawing this on a larger scale with pastels, so anything such as anatomy corrections would be great ^.^)

I have a feeling the head isn't as realistic as the body, but it doesn't look awful so I'm not too sure. xD Also the front of his chest looks a little weird. Oops.



Last edited on 2016-03-01 at 10:54:14 by Tree

This is really really good! I like the angle, a lot of people can't get those very well at first.

The head is definitely a bit wonky though, unless you likes the cartoony look. The muzzle is way too large and rounded; horse muzzles are quite small compared to the rest of their head and the face is typically straight or roman on this kind of horse (arabs wouldn't be spotted lol)

The front leg is also very very small at the angle it's at. It wouldn't be forward THAT much, so bringing that in and making it larger a little would be a huge help.

Overall though it's really cute! I quite like the style, my critique was from a realistic POV.

Thank you! I can usually only get a realistic look when drawing with pastels haha.

I can see what you mean about the muzzle... I was aiming for realism so I'll definitely change that when I go big! :)

I love this!

The only things are the head - cheek a bit small, muzzle a bit big. :)

And the front leg - bit dipped and wavy. :)

Thanks Magic! I think the cheek will look alright when the muzzle is sorted out. :D

I have an issue with digital art, but traditional art is my thing. Now, I am self taught, meaning no lessons or critique on my personal stuff, so your decision wether or not to take my advice.ok. To start off, always remember to take your time. Rushing will get you nowhere. Always use references, at least I find that easier and more reliable. As for the actual drawing, it looks great. I don't start with heavy dark lines. I hate using tutorials with the little step by step. Use light strokes for your outline. I only like doing head shots or chest ups because legs and hooves are horribly difficult for meh. Be creative. For later on, I like using different colors describing the horses personality. Like for a fast and hyper horse, I would draw an outline of an Arabian or high headed breed, and paint it with warm colors, the reds and oranges. For mane and tail, light wispy strokes in a repetitive motion for the flowing effect. I still am horrible with this. Shading is a necessary evil for a graphite drawing. I typically don't shade for pastels or paint, I find it waste of time. For shading, I focus in on the darker areas then come back with a soft eraser to blend and hard to create shiny spots. Hope this helps for future!!!!
I love the look and style you do though....kinda jealous....

Thanks for the advice, Silver! Your style sounds very interesting and original. Personally, I LOVE to shade with pastel! It may take 1,000 years but it's fun. xD