New to pixelling, but not art (ink illustration). Here's what I've been working on. It doesn't quite gel. Any tips appreciated, but I'm really looking for ideas on how to make the face pop a little more and make the background into something that will tie it all together. Eventually I'll be using this as my online avatar everywhere I go so I'd like it to be incredibly good in the end.

I want some sparkle effects and I'd like to work the lamp in somehow, but I'm willing to abandon all that in favor of fresh ideas. Not used to working with color as you can see.

By the way, I love the look and layout of your site--nice warm colors.

My dithering is crappy as well so tips there will help.