"Leila" is a portrait of a character I created for a story I'm writing. I created this painting of her inspired by the style and color palette of Kelly Vivanco's painting "On Watch".

I really like the blend of stylization and realism in the shading and proportions of Vivanco's work, as well as the sense of mystery and storytelling that she creates. I wanted my painting to embody some of that same feeling so I chose a similar expression and pose for my character as I sketched her out. 

I began my painting process by creating the background. I chose the blend of teal and white to mimic Vivanco's painting in some ways, while also making distinctions that fit my character. Instead of mysterious woods, I chose to make the background reminiscent of fire, since that is a motif more relevant to Leila's story.

With the background done, I moved on to Leila herself, blocking out the main colors, then moving into the details, going back and forth between her clothing and her face until I finished the painting.