Congratulation ! thats the right way. Honesty, originality, creativity will pay off, dishonesty not. At least that what our hardworking Steemcleaners, Jaguars want to achieve. Now in future I can also see what inpired you, thats an extra piece of information and if I like it I can upvote.
I´d also love to see a painting sometime in the future, coming from YOUR heart/soul something you made without any reference. This will get you an extra upvote, I promise.
I've created art without references, but thank you.