I had a little free time and some regular notebook paper and I expanded on the tiny thumbnail sketch I did of a "ski bug". I really liked the idea originally, then started working on the ant/spider/scorpion thing. After reading Emu's comments about pokemon that look "like pokemon", I went back to the ski bug. What I really like about it is, to me, it looks "like a pokemon". Others may disagree and that's fine. But, that's basically my impression of a Ken Sugimori pokemon. Basic line work, just a few key design elements, and lyrical as hell (for those of you into art terms). I'm no Ken Sugimori, but this is me trying to impersonate the master (description follows):
I wanted to pull back on the direct representation of a "bug", and instead focus on including a few key elements that justify a bug typing, but doesn't hammer you over the head with it. The ski theme is something I really want to work with, only because it ties great with an ice typing and nothing like it has been done before in Pokemon.
Inspirationally, I tried to avoid heavy reliance on traditional winter/cold cliches. Heavy coats, ice, snow, etc. Instead, I was thinking "downhill racer". Downhillers are sleek and fast, with their skinsuits and all that. But they are still winter as all get out, without all the bulk.
The goggles over the eyes are Flygon derivative, but they fit the ski theme, and just look totally cool IMO. The skis are meant to be tied in as an organic part of the pokemon. I added some wings on the back to give it another bug element, and made them look like sheets of ice for obvious reasons. It also balances out aesthetically with the goggles. The arms are mantis-like. The body is roughly proportioned like a mantis or a grasshopper. The antennae are swept back to connote speed.
I still think it needs another pattern or something to really finish it out. I'd like to add some simple design to the arms, chest, neck, torso, or something. I'm imagining a variation on spots or stripes, but I can't come up with anything simple and elegant that works with the rest of the design. Hmmm... it still needs...something.
Once I decide on the final stuff, I'll do this on bristol board and color it. Overall, I'm liking this one and I think I'll keep working on it.
EDIT: Motion study here:
http://img503.imageshack.us/img503/4367/skibugstudy1qc0.jpg