Zeyn1K (DTIYS Entry)
I did another digital art piece once again, and this time I told myself that it would be one more baby step into learning kidlit style art. I still feel like a beginner in this field, like I am just learning how to walk in a new pair of shoes. But I know that if I do not start, I will never grow.This piece is also my entry for a “Draw This in Your Style” challenge hosted by Zeyn.Illustration. Joining this challenge made me both thrilled and a little anxious. I wanted to respect the original concept while still letting my own style breathe through it.
In my artwork, there is a sweet little girl sitting on bright green grass. She wears a strawberry hat that looks soft and cosy, with tiny seed dots and a green leafy top. Her short brown hair peeks out from under the hat, curving gently around her cheeks. Her eyes are closed as if she is fully lost in the music she is playing. Her mouth is open in a joyful singing expression, and her face glows with warmth.
She is holding a small wooden guitar close to her body. Her tiny fingers press on the strings carefully, and her other hand strums with gentle energy. She sits beside a smooth grey rock, which helps balance the composition. The sky behind her is a soft blue with fluffy white clouds drifting slowly. The grass is painted in simple strokes, lively but not too detailed, so the focus stays on her.
Her dress is light and decorated with small strawberry patterns, matching her hat. She wears simple red shoes that add a pop of colour near the bottom of the piece. I tried to keep the shapes round and friendly, because kidlit art often feels soft and welcoming.
When I stepped back and looked at the final result, I thought it turned out fine. It is not professional-level yet. To be honest, it feels more like a colour script art rather than a fully polished kidlit illustration. The lighting is gentle but could be clearer. The forms can be pushed further. The shadows need more confidence. The textures are still a bit too safe.
But I remind myself that I am still taking baby steps. I am learning how to simplify shapes, how to stylise expressions, and how to make the characters feel more alive. I know there are things I need to improve next time — stronger shape language, better value control, and more expressive posing.
Right now, what I truly need is feedback from well-experienced kidlit artists. I want to hear honest thoughts, even if they point out my weak spots. I believe critique is not something to fear, but something that helps me grow.
This piece may not be where I want to be yet, but it is one small step forward. And for now, I will keep walking.Feb 23, 2026
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