Stuff of Dreams

This is the third class project for my Digital Art I class, alternatively called Graffiti Artist or Subway Car.

We were all given a simple black and white template. From there, we were told to choose an artist; the template served as a model, if the artist we chose was a graffiti artist, what would they do with this subway car.

Nene Thomas was my choice. I believe if she was to consider making a subway car, or to decorate one, it would fit her magical-nature theme. She usually portrays forested or sky scenes, populated by butterflies, birds of all kinds, horses, winged horses or unicorns, beautiful women in fancy ballroom gowns or similar garb, and fairies.

And thus, the log carried by birds and butterflies was born. A log, hollowed out, with windows cut out and leaves for flaps, carries at least four passengers to the next stop. Weary wings get help from fellow friends.

Photoshop CS5; about nine hours. I made the log, for the most part - colored and shaped. Used a log reference for form and texture; used a log reference to complete the texture.

(c) Nene Thomas for the birds, part of the background, butterflies, and women (modified fairies). Used with permission. No part of her work may be duplicated or used without her permission. [link]

Sky by

Log by

Fairy Wands from Fairies.It: [link]



For potential critics from the above group, please answer these questions (at least two of the three):

1. My Photoshop skills are almost nill, and I'm a complete beginner. What skills and/or Photoshop commands would you recommend me learn if I was to attempt this picture again (be it a copy of this picture or a similar project)?

2. The butterflies and birds are off center to represent their natural flight patterns. Butterflies flit and flutter, birds sway, tip and turn with the wind. Do you think I portrayed that well in this picture?

3. How would you have handled such a project as this? Do you think I perhaps made a bad choice of function (that is visible in the picture)?

Thank you!