Agreed with Oreo0000. This is just the style of the piece. The shading is beautiful in particular - It gives the impression of rough, greasy skin, and the darkness makes me think of a cave.
Yes, I agree with the points made by the three of you, but honestly would the piece be that much better in the light? The darkness and shading gives it a feeling walking up on some creature in the dark. This piece is great.
If I don't get in straight line to the monitor, I can't see it, it's just a black square
Wow, I wouldn't have thought that it could be too dark or even black on other monitors... must be my laptop settings.
As Oreo and Hrunting point out however, it IS supposed to be real dark, just as the title suggests. But maybe I'll lighten it up a little.
Thanks for the comments.