With calm, collected satisfaction Semper reveals his hand, his eyes sparkling with humble smugness, showing once and for all just how much your pair of queens was worth.

Semper, another character from my Tales of the Elessi. He's a musician come amateur thief and an expert at all things relating to cards whether that be playing them or doing tricks or simple shuffling in exciting and flamboyant ways. It's probably a big mistake to try and play Semper at poker...

Anyhow, it's been a long time since I did a detailed facial study and I felt Semper really needed it since I wasn't really sure what he looked like. I'm particularly pleased with the skintone and general contrast on the face - I realise I often lack shadow. As I drew more and more it became increasingly clear to me what he should look like, finally culminating in this finished piece...

It's probably a little geeky for me to say this of my own character but I never realised how attractive he was until I drew this. *Blush* I just love the way he looks out of the picture. I've never quite managed to achieve that before, I think. Even if my characters are looking forwards it never works out that they seem to be looking at you and following you. I really wanted Semper to have that piercing gaze as he's a pretty sharp and intense guy.

Here's proving ginger is sexy! Woo! Go Semper!

If you are interested in the line art look here: [link]