Hello Chris - Brave Move! The best way to become more comfortable with your art is to have peers . . . such as those on Elfwood or others on the worldwide web offer tips. Here we go . . . the dragon is really good because of the directional flow and contrast; however, you could benefit by using your colour palette (think about the complementary colours playing off each other-red and green, blue and orange and yellow and purple). Cool colors for shadows (recede) and warm for highlight areas (advance)or emphasize. The least expensive grade of coloured pencils are not the best for blending colors but they will work. I work with k-5 and also 6-12 who just need to understand the basics to enjoy art. You don't have to practice until your arm falls off to enjoy art, but that is practically what it takes to be OUTSTANDING. Dedication is difficult if you feel their is a lack in proficiency. Proficiency is only gained through knowledge of your craft (the basics and beyond) and use of that which you want to become proficient at (practice, practice). Hope this helps and I wish you all the luck -- Look at it this way you have something on the web I don't. I draw everyday and I hedge when it comes to posting anything because of what I do for a living. Maybe in 5 or 6 years I will get up the nerve. BLESSINGS to you and those in your heart! Selina