Guardians Of Asgaard

This is some fan art of the character Ragnar Lothbrok, from the History Channel show, Vikings. I think I’ve thrown in all the different techniques I’ve used in the past here LOL. And by trying this, I’ve come to the conclusion that I’m not really liking how the blurred and/or smudged look is pairing with the sketchy lines. It’s a nice contrast in textures, but the blurred shading looks very Photoshoppy to me. I do like the muted color palette’s mood though. Since I know I’m sticking with the sketchy lines, I’d say the visible paint strokes are going to be the way to go.