Time Lapse Abstract Dragon Pt 1

my first time doing anything like this,
laying down the background and the basic outline for what the dragon and bamboo will be. just having fun on the background, doing spontaneous things. but some concerns with the the second video when i get into the detail of the bamboo and dragon. was trying to use chalk and oil pastels but its my first time with the chalk and it just didn't work well for me.
1.) how do i make the dragon and bamboo more realistic?
2.) what materials should i use for the most realistic effect?
3.) any other tips ad advice on realistic drawing?
ANY FEEDBACK CRITIC ON STYLE OR HELPFUL ADVICE WOULD HELP.
acrylic
chalk and oil pastel (didn’t work for me, first time using Rembrandt chalk)
gouache