Today we're going to look at two commissions of an old favourite, Malk. Before this week's image, I was commissioned to draw him back in 2012. These images had different budgets, goals, and other limitations, so it's not fair to compare them too closely. Still, side-by-sides are fun for me. Maybe you'll enjoy this, too.

2012 has a more interesting pose, more volume and a nice point-of-view, but I failed to effectively capture the character's blue skin, scars, and dark hair. This character's title is "Dark Lord", which 2014 seems to convey better with dark reds and a ritual-ready podium, and I played up his scars this time around. In short, I feel like 2014 is more Malk than 2012.

For artists: Whether comparing your old art to your new art, or your own art to the art of another person, remember the important differences. It's about so much more than the end result.

For commissioners: The biggest factor to the success of the artist may be personal enjoyment paired with authenticity. If a client can provide an idea that the artist can love, while paying him professional wages, success should be a guarantee.

This grossly simplifies on many levels, something I'd like to unpack later, but here's a quick and snappy formula:

Livable Wages + Great Idea + Trust = Amazing Art