I haven't had much luck with either sculpting or box modeling. That cartoon character hits pretty close to what I'm thinking of producing.

I do see some very interesting Nurbs based models.

http://www.3drender.com/jbirn/ea/HeadModel.html

http://www.turbosquid.com/FullPreview/Index.cfm/ID/171082/Action/FullPreview

http://www.craftsmanspace.com/free-3d-models/low-poly-elephant-3d-model.html

http://www.craftsmanspace.com/free-3d-models/human-body-3d-models.html