[Commission] Aftermath

I agree with you. There are much better ways and Lulu is a special case anyway.

I was lucky growing up with loving parents. Therefore, I can’t remember If I ever got spanked. I got slapped a few times when I was being a real brat but that’s about it. I don’t have children but I don’t think I could spank them myself. That said also don’t think spanking a child's butt is always a horrible and traumatic experience. Of course, every child is unique and that has to be considered when choosing a punishment. You don’t want to lock up a child in his room if he’s suffering from claustrophobia because it could trigger a panic attack. Likewise, you don’t want to spank a child who was beaten by her previous caretakers. So, I stand by what I said way earlier: Spanking Lulu is a bad idea that could backfire horribly. There are plenty of ways to punish a child for misbehaving and spanking is not the right answer to everything.

NTG

Merci.

Thank you for your feedback. I'm very sorry you find it upsetting -- it's pretty much given that I won't be doing any controversial commissions like this one in the future. All in all, I do agree with you 100% and this is why this would never be canon. Thistle understands that Lulu needs patience, respect and lots of love. She knows Lulu is not an average kid and doesn't expect parenting her to be easy. I did agree to draw it for a few reasons. Tops 3 being the following. First of all, I know that Marinus headcanon and story behind this illustration. For him, it illustrates that no matter what Lullaby does, this is the only consequences she will face; she will still be loved and wanted (we may disagree with this logic, but this is what he believes). Second, this was something important for him personally. Third, I knew this piece would be created - if not by me then by someone else - and that way I could control the execution. I hope that explains my decision and thanks again <3

Thank you. Playing with light and shadow is one of those things I want to master and constantly try to improve ^^ I agree. Lulu needs extra care and tons of patience, not because she's a bad kid but because she was failed by adults so badly. And Thistle understands that very well. For example, they leave the room when she starts to shout not to punish her but because their presence is clearly upsetting her. Or Thistle is patiently ignoring Lulu increasing demands to swim in the lake instead of yelling at her.

There's nothing wrong with saying no, especially if you're uncomfortable depicting your characters this way. They are yours and you get to choose the way you represent them to your audience. As long as this is your choice and you weren't pressured to make/post this art then I think you did good. I'm glad you explained that this scene isn't canon to ASL. In the comic, Thistle is a very good person (or pony) for being unwaveringly patient with Lulu's temperamental nature. I speak only for myself when I say that I find the art a little upsetting. Discipline can come in many other forms, especially when it comes to a victim of abuse. It's very difficult and time-consuming to reason with a child and treat them like an adult, but it's giving Lu the care, patience, love and respect she never got from her abusive aunt. That being said, you have a great art style and work wonders with lighting and color composition. Excited to see what you have planned next!

A very nice drawing. The lighting stands out especially. Lullaby is a bit of a special case, but in general I don't think there's a direct connection between physical punishment and a child feeling unloved. That's only a thing in combination with over all bad parenting. Kids that know they're loved, that their parents truly care, will correctly see their hurting butt as a consequence of their own actions. And that's illustrated in this piece quite well, I think. But I also think it's good that Lulu doesn't get spanked in ASL. At this point she has most connections between parental love and punishment and being a bad filly backwards. Giving her space instead of disciplining her harshly seems the much better approach in her case. She already reflects on her own behavior a lot for a kid her age, she just needs proper guidance to draw the right conclusions.

I do not approve either but seeing the big stupidity between fleeing, and bringing the boredom home its remains to justify.

Lux The Pegasus

She was physically punished, yes. This is why she is never disciplined in such a manner in ASL.

The art is A-OK as always :) but... ouch! Hmm, wasn't it hinted that Lulu was punished like that by her Aunt?

Thank you for your unwavering support, Myrkin! <3

I share your feelings on the subject matter, but I enjoy the quality of your art nevertheless. :)

Myrkin