Thank you for the feedback. I tend to use references, though for such a small canvas I am not sure what to emphasize to make the anatomy clear. 

I think a drop shadow for the text would help improve readability. As well, don't be afraid to look up references for anatomy such as hands and faces, or references for gestures and poses such as holding objects. Even expert illustrators and pixelartists will use photographs or mirrors to double-check their work.