For rhaiyounchu

This is a fantastic piece exhibiting great use of line, tone, volume, texture and form. The sheer amount of detail in the garment patterns, trinkets, hair ornaments and accessories are divinely harmonised to create a beautiful image.

What demands my attention immediately when viewing this work, is the hair worn in a high ponytail with those graceful, twisting, wavy clumps and also the fringe in all its appeal. The masterful use of quality of line in thickness and placement not only creates a convincing texture and quality; but also expresses great design, style and artistic beauty in the work.

This great technique is not only evident in the subject's hair but also on the various ornaments, in particular the beads and giant bow. The contrast of texture of the beads to the bow can be seen in the form of the objects, and also the depiction of interaction light has with these items.

Another striking aspect to this piece are the eyes of the subject. Being drawn in the Japanese manga style, it has elements that are similar in nature to other works of that style; yet has a uniqueness to it that parts it from others. The heavy arrangement of eyelashes, and flawless execution of subtly indicating the separation between highlights and darker sections (such as the pupil and iris) is remarkable.

Paying attention to the garment, there can be seen a beautiful balance between complex detail and simple, yet beautiful form. The long elegant segmented sleeves references traditional Japanese/ Renaissance styles in an infused, hybrid garment which is simply beautiful. The midsection containing the floral and symbolic patterns, really gives a rich feel in terms of arrangement, form and culture. Both of these elements together really make a wonderful piece in itself.

The subject herself is also an object of beauty. From the structure of that small, beautiful face, wearing that cute, confident, aloof facial expression melts the soul. That small slender neck, those perfect shoulders and arms, tastefully exposed from the gaps in the luscious garment. The petite torso, having the curves in the right places truly pleases the eye.

This is a fantastic display of artistic talent, mastery of drawing technique and also great style, design and aesthetics. Rich in culture and beauty, this work has it all.