This is much better, isn’t it. As my daughter’s cat, I am very familiar with him and, in some ways, that makes it harder. I want to see the cat I know emerge from the canvas. His expression is much more defined now and some personality is starting to come through. He basically is a happy little guy, though somewhat the chicken where bravery is concerned. Hence the slightly worried face.
I wasn’t concerned about the preliminary being over bright. I softened the orange, added the brown stripes and highlights, and textured the fur.
There will be a few more changes after I let it sit for a bit. I need to tone down the orange in the left side of his face, add shadows and a few whiskers, and deepen the colors in his eyes. I am pleased so far.