Guardian Angel

I guess this is a work that I will never finish. It was a self-test to see if I could produce something of a high enough quality to sell as a print. After much work, I've reached the end of my current abilities without reaching the standard I'd set... which means more practice. So I just slapped a gradient in the background and posted it.
As with any piece, I learned a lot though. I feel much improved with my understanding of anatomy. Also, I think I finally have a knack for drawing clothing. On the other hand, I think a different coloring style other than cel-shading would've worked better, but I don't a steady enough hand to soft shade with a mouse. And yet I'm too cheap to fork over the bucks for a tablet. Also, now I see why hardly anyone draws characters in exact profile. I guess I need learn to draw more dynamic poses. I understand the concept, but it never quite materializes on the paper the way I want it to. And the facial expressions ended up being a fail, which pisses me off a little because I know I could've done better.
Don't get me wrong. I'm not one to self-loathe for attention. I just feel disappointed because it's like my skill stalled out before I achieved the vision I'd set out for.