[John de la Vega]

..overall, a beautiful job. You have a clear, strong image, and what seems to be a good resemblance. I have some minor concerns:

The composition, while acceptable, could use a little more difference of negative areas behind the head, even as, wisely, you placed the figure 'off-center'.

Sameness of lighter color / value on both sides of the face, again, while acceptable and 'credible', takes away from artistic interest (if it is indeed as close as it appears on your scan). In general, I am of the theory that we should openly vary qualities, in color, value, texture, etc., on 'either' side of background, or in any sections of a composition involving an axis, horizontal or vertical, unless 'repetition' is a deliberate and obvious choice, a 'must - have' component of the visual concept.

The smile is a bit frozen, which could be easily corrected with slightly softer edges, or more varied edges. More variety of edges could also apply to the rest of the painting, not just 'contour' edges but other transitions as well.

Michele, I'm am being picky, and in no way I mean to question the quality of your lively portrait. Such 'aliveness' speaks highly of your sensitivity to capture the essence of your subjects, not always present in so many photo - derived portraits.