6 Fantasy and real facial fe atures

This is a 2D painted study of the anatomy and colouration of the six eyes. There’s a request for the skin to be iridescent in key areas. I try to make this painting photo real, to eliminate any guesswork with the look. I use a soft-focus depth of field to simulate what may occur in a tight, close-up shot. I try to create an angry, wild-eyed look, with elements of an Asian dragon, fleshy protuberances to emulate a moustache, and crocodile horns over the eyes. I look at cows for inspiration and paint a pink mottle on the nose and lips. Referencing nature is essential when designing fantasy creatures. It helps to anchor the look in reality, adding familiar signatures that make it believable.