It is the second illustration in the book I'm making. I am soooo behind : ( I don't know if I'll be ready with it in time. I hope so. I'd like to know what you think about it. The teachers told me I should forget this Barbie doll style... It was really offensive, but maybe they are right... Do you think it is too much? The lights and everything... I never ask anyone opinion about what I should change, but now I'm so confused. I'm doing 14 illustrations in this book, I'll update all of them : )
Can I ask if you paint on colored paper? I'm fascinated by the range of soft hues you get in your paintings. It reminds me of many of my childhood favorite picture books and stationery sets.
Oh, I just realized that this was mixed/digital media - but I would still love to know whether your fully traditional pieces are done on colored paper!
I don't paint on coloured paper : ) I paint these normally, then I scan them, and modify the colours a bit, and also add some detail on top of everything.
This sort of ethereal style does not remind me of barbie, your drawing is much more beautiful. I really love the way you colored the tail, specifically the way you hint at iridescence and a sheen to each scale. Also the striations in the back fin are rather realistic looking, very similar to the way a beta fish tail looks. Anyway, stick to what you find beautiful.
Maybe the style and color of the hair is what they found Barbie-like but I wouldn't change a thing.