Asuna Yuuki [+speedpaint link]

Firstly, I want to say that the displayed skill in the character is very impressive. The use of color in the legs shows the work of a skilled artist. Her design is adorable and elegant. I feel like I really can tell what this character is like just by the way she is rendered. Overall, the color palette in the piece is very nice and aesthetically satisfying. I agree, however, with the critic below somewhat with the simplicity of the background. I think that this piece would either work better with a way simpler background, like a simple gradient or subtle pattern without the water in the foreground OR with a much more detailed background and rainfall. The realism in the water (ripples, reflections) is really well done, but it doesn't really compliment the cartoony raindrops and striped background. This character would look awesome if placed in an atmosphere just as elegant as she is. The only other thing that I could see might use some improvement is the shoes and the character's hands. The right shoe that is further away looks fine, but the one closer towards us doesn't match the other shoe, and has a kind of weird shape to it at the toes. Also, her hands look a little big for such an otherwise dainty and feminine character. Overall, this piece is really successful especially your skill in character design and use of color! Keep up the great work and I can't wait to see what else you have in store for us!