TDM, your practice carving is coming along nicely. A lot of your “mistakes” will be fixed with a v groove or carving blade. This is especially true along the relief cuts that look a little ragged. Rifflers can help to smooth and even out the background.
With the amount of research you’ve done, as well as practice, I’m sure I’m not telling you something new. But most important are sharp, sharp tools. I keep a diamond 600 grit at my side and use it the second I notice the tool grabbing.
As you know by now, maple is difficult to carve, difficult to learn on. The more figure the harder. I often tell first time carvers to start with some basswood to get used to the tools before tackling harder woods. You’re doing great.
Thanks for posting all the photos. It is good to watch the progress.