Snakes and Pixels!

2022's start of year animal zodiac painting: Tiger.

2026: Year of the Fire Horse

Got any tips for pixel artists? Especially in terms of making good looking characters

This may be a bit too broad for me to give an appropriate answer, though I suppose it comes down to what it is that you're hoping to achieve.

I define the most fundamental principle in pixel art as getting a lot out of very little. Its also an artform that's fundamentally about abstraction and letting your mind fill in the gaps.

While free experimentation and trying new things you feel up to is always reccomended, a good practice for pixel art is to challenge yourself to use less.

Smaller sizes and less colors aren't just for bragging rights. Its a way to learn how to break down what you're trying to depict, and how you can imply things, rather than draw them outright.

This can also answer your second question. Often people get too caught up in detail and over-designing, and simplifying can also let you get to the core of what you want to depict.

Most of my favorite designs got a lot better when I scaled them down, then used that as a way to inform larger illustrations.

If you're celebrating or just relaxing a bit, hope you have a good rest of your winter!