u/Hungry_Cartoonist251

I am mainly working on value grouping, edges and construction.
For this study, I sketched an egg shape then built the shadow shapes into the main oval shape then refined placements to try and match the reference.
I initially shaded all shadow shapes the same value, then I picked out darkest shapes and darkened overall shadow.
I then softened some edges like on the cheek, underside of bottom lip and forehead as the planes move away from light.
Overall I’m fairly happy with the result for a short study, but it looks quite amateurish in my opinion.
Would anyone be able to provide insight as to where I mainly need to improve?
I feel like I mostly got the values correct, but it doesn’t look particularly clean or well constructed in my opinion.
Just looking for any suggestions to improve such as my line work, values, form and anatomy.
Thanks in advance.
(Reference in last pic)

I mainly wanted to improve at value grouping with this and constructing the head.
Looking at it now, the nose doesn’t look quite right but for a short exersice I am quite pleased overall.
Mainly I don’t like how messy it feels compared to people who are more skilled than myself.
I tried to map out the shadow side and then darken the darkest shadows with a few soft and hard edges. I am unsure where the main areas for improvement are however because it just doesn’t look very good in my opinion.
Maybe I am being too harsh but I would be very appreciative of where I should aim to improve next time.
Thanks in advance.

This is one of very few oil pastels I’ve done. I am new to the medium but felt like I experienced how painterly they can feel which was a lot of fun.
Any suggestions for improvements or different techniques is much appreciated

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