Character Design Beginning

Here are some progress shots on a digital painting of one of my character designs. I am trying to treat the digital painting in the same way I would approach an oil painting, with strokes of color on a single layer.

This character has given me a lot of trouble, resisting my attempts to design her in a character sheet or a 360 degree lineup sheet. She became too restricted, with my original design not showing the strength of will and wildness that embodies her. In letting go of my strict self-imposed guidelines, I am able to begin drawing her in a way that sets her free as well.

The blue dress made my character look to similar to Merida from Brave, so I changed the color to a deep green.