AT: Smokeless Fire by forgetSanity on DeviantArt (original) (raw)

Overall

Vision

Originality

Technique

Impact

First off, I'd like to say that I'm very impressed with this piece. I find that the colours used here very well communicate the emotion and atmosphere of the drawing. Considering that it is out of your comfort zone, you did an absolutely outstanding job. His facial expression seems to communicate with the viewer and gives off a very seductive vibe. It really says something when someone can look at a painting and really feel it.
I love how the light reflects on to his face and chest, though more attention to detail could help with really providing definition to the rest of his features. Dramatic lighting can skillfully be used to enhance more prevalent features and give a character a more "real" look. While the lighting was aptly used, there was a lack of shadowing in the deeper parts of the work. While it was still present, I feel that it could have been dramatized to enhance the whole of the painting. I'd like to compliment the flow of the fire from his palm, as it seems to entwine the rest of the piece and pull everything together. It was a truly beautiful part that is also stunning to look at.
The detail in the face and hair is stunning, although it makes the shirt seem almost menial in comparison. More structure, texture, and detail could have been used to make the shirt blend in with the look and feel of the rest of him.
Your vision in this piece is very clearly displayed. You can see the emotion that he is letting off. The theme and idea of it all is very well executed.
This piece is also very original. While the "holding a flame" idea is prevalent in a number of artist's works, I feel that you have put a spin on it with this unique character. It was, indeed, surprising the way is had all been put together in such a different way that was definitely not commonplace.
I do believe that you technique is skillful and well preformed, while only minor errors present themselves. I kindly reiterate that a more acute attention to definition and detail can be used to improve. Think about how something would really look if it were sitting right in front of you. Try to imagine how the shadows would fall and where the light would hit stronger in some places, and dimmer in others. All aside, you can tell that you have a true talent and skill.
This piece did have an very significant impact. I say it again and again, but the facial expression of the character is so real. Many artists struggle with these kind of expressions and the face seems stiff and immobile, while this seems to really smile and smirk like something truly living. It seems to communicate a superior and insatiable desire-- all in a few brushstrokes. All in all, it really does blow my mind that you are able to create a piece that is so truly ravishing and pleasing to the eye.