Yeah, thanks, NC, it does.
People can refer to this if need be. I think a few will become widely used and understood, but some may be too indistinct because the particular expression or feature that conveys the icon's purpose doesn't stand out.
For example BB's smiling face is clear because his smile is big. Ditto Grinn. Mystery Lad "?" and Cham's frown are distinct. But most of the other head's expressions are indeterminate because of size or unnecessary detail.
My background is in art, and I've done a bit of cartoon character design, so for what they're worth, here's my "tips & suggestions." I think you see these already, but here's my take on them.
1) Simplify: use line to express the key aspect, not shape or color that often. You have a palette here, but you're not painting, your color drawing. Big diff, and that's why #1 focus is simplification, not detail. Lines work great for mouth expressions. Same for eyes & eyebrows. A red mouth line suggests the gender we assoctiate with lipstick. Color dots may be best for eyes when not used as the primary expressive feature/aspect.
2) Exaggerate: simplify, then play with forms of exaggeration of the salient feature, even at "expense" of excluding other features (eyes, ears, hair style, etc.) First make it clear, then noticible.
3) Use Existing Visual Clues: as you did, a simple distinct headband identifies Lyle. A green line-slash in hair identifies Vi. But gotta make sure other characters don't share that feature. Because of the white hair, I thought your R.J. was Mekt! I thought, okay, kinky!
So I think the primary way to go isn't "fair representation" of popular Legionnaires, but rather utilization of those who have readily identifiable visual clues.
Which means with Legion you can use color a few times here as immediate clues. As evidenced by your Brainy & Cham icons. Immediately recoqnizable. Ditto I think Shady. But you may have to use lighter shades for darker color in these small spaces so the other feature/aspect you use really stands out.
There's an old saw that writing is really rewriting. Well, the same is often true about any form of design - sometimes gotta tinker and tinker! As frustrating as it is satisfying some times.
I'm really glad we have these little kooky fun guys! And I think I got lucky cause I have the coolest one of the bunch. Seriously!
< I mean, just look at me!
Thanks again, NC, for the info and all the work you do for us here!