Merida - Cultural

Okay! This is part of the Big Four cultural project I'm going to be working on. First up is Merida. Next: Rapunzel: [link]

When I began to design her, I wanted to make her Ethiopian. However, I was at home and having no internet at home, I used my phone to look for images as references for clothing, etc. I couldn't find any. No, I'm not kidding. I looked for an hour, and nothing came up. I had already put her in this outfit, and I liked it. So I think she's more Brazilian than Ethiopian. You can make a judgement call.

It was ridiculously fun and fascinating to draw Merida as a dark skinned woman. I have to confess, coloring dark skin is so much more fun than coloring peachy skin. It was easier to find the shades and the tone for the whole picture. This picture was a great learning experience. Also, thanks to ... oh gosh, someone on tumblr who explained how to, shade and give blush to, a dark skinned woman.

Freckles: I made them gold. I actually drew inspiration fro who designs Hazel from POJ fandom, with gold freckles. It was really inspired, so I gave a few to Merida, and they worked out much better than I thought.

Hair: I kept Merida's hair baiscally the same. I wanted to make sure I kept all the things that made Merida, Merida.

Eyes: ^ Same for this.

I really hope you guys will enjoy this! It was lots of fun to draw.