Wow! Thank you all! I am glad you all like this, and thanks for the feedback. Always appreciated.
I began prepping the canvas last night, and your comments help feed the inspiration.
@Hypno: I often like the prelim sketch better than the final canvas. I am glad you like it.
@Ashemanu: blows you kisses. Thanks hon. I am glad it is recognizable as mine.
@ Yurga and Ann1958: don't be overly concerned about his 'breasts', or hands. lol As mentioned, this is a preliminary sketch; a rough draft. As delicate as Yoshiki can be, he is also absolutely male, but without the proper shading, he looks like he's packing a 'C' cup in this.
Yoshiki does have very elegant hands, but his right one is too big by far in this sketch.
@Neru: I will be adding colour. The skirting will be a deep blood red with gold accent; the background a soft butter cream fading into sepia. I hope to make it rich, yet minimalist, like the subject.
@ Flippinkein: I hope to make the fabric a heavy velvet. I have done velvet before, but it can be tricky.
@ demonbefriender: Very humble gratitude. Some of my art can be seen here:
http://whispersinthebamboo.spaces.live.com/ I have not updated that site in forever though. Other fave artists are Brom (modern); the Pre-Raphaelites, Artemisia Gentileschi and Carravagio. It has been a dream to become good enough at my craft to be a career artist but dreams don't pay the rent. Le sigh.
Anyone have any ideas what style to do hide in? I don't think Michael Parks treatment would work on him. Looking for a style that suits the spirit. Again, Thanks to you all for the feedback!