2017 vs 2021 (Drawing with the same reference image)

Hello sweet people.
This is my first art post in the FreeCompliment community, with no much thing being done, I think I already like this place, the act of kindness shown through comments makes it a place that's worth visiting.

Today I want share with you my transition on this drawing from 2017 to 2021. Comparing the two makes me really feel proud about myself, yeahh It's really amazing how we live to see ourselves grow💐💐💐

I drew this with pen on A4 sized paper. I enjoyed the drill and it was among my best art piece but I couldn't figure out how to add a background, well I just didn't want to ruin the drawing so I left it that way.

Fast forwarding to 2021, I made a pencil drawing of the same reference with charcoal pencil on Strathmore paper... Waoww! I made magic!! Yes!!!
This time, the work looks more realistic and appealing, well structured and blended. I really enjoyed the whole creative process, from the block-in, till the finishing stage.

Here's some progress shots

Slowly and slowly I got here, yeah it looks like it took forever, but I am very glad my skill is taking a good turn.
Please drop me those your sweet compliments ❤️