I'd appreciate pointers and methods on how to improve myself, rather than ratings. Stuff like shading and technique, since I have no idea if I'm doing anything right or wrong.

 

 

 

EDIT: It was orginially going to be a person, but it turned into this mystical orb of power thing. Call it whatever you like.

 

 

 

EDIT 2: I Shaded a bit more and added a darker side to the other edge of the orb. I also added another level of darkness to the shading of the shaft.

 

 

 

EDIT 3: I couldn't think of a background for the life of me, so I added a simple border.

what is it?

A staff maybe? Im not sure either :wink:

its nice but it needs a background and some more shadows, you've only included highlights in your shading

Ok, thanks, but what should I do for a background?

It's hefty good. But maybe you should also add some darker shading at the opposite side of lighten areas to increase effect. Might improve the picture.

 

 

 

 

 

no offence, but it looks bit -just a bit- like a buddy part

I see what you mean in the small text. It does kinda look like a buddy item, but I swear I didn't rip it.

I added a border, which should take the place of having a background.