My first project aimed to create manta rays flying in the clouds. I started off by using various cloud brushes to create a cloud filled sky. I chose to use the colors I did to create dimension and a frame for the manta rays.

I then began using the brush tool to draw the first manta ray. I used dark, yet realistic colors in the manta rays to make them pop in contrast to the light yellow clouds in the background. I then cleaned up the drawing by using the smudge tool to make the colors blend together and flow better.

Then, I duplicated the manta ray and adjusted the levels on one to create more dimension on the one farther back. Finally, I centered and framed the manta rays to make them the main focus of the piece.

My second project aimed to create dancing whales wearing tutus in space. I began by using the brush tool to place various colors, then used the liquify effect to make the swirl effect in the planet. Then I began using the paint brush to draw the whale.

Next, I drew the second whale using the first techniques as the first. To make the colors blend better, I used the smudge tool. Then, I began using different brushes to create the lighter haze and clouds seen in the piece. I did this to add detail and dimension so that there wouldn't be open space.

Lastly, I filled more empty space by adding more clouds and another planet using the same techniques as the first. Then I used a dowloaded brush to add stars in the to really tie the background together. I finished the project by drawing tutus onto each of the whales.

For my final piece, I sought to create a deer tanning at the pool wearing using headphones. I began by creating the sidewalk, and then drew the pool. I then added a water ripple brush to give the water a more realistic look.

I then used the brush tool and added mountains and a sunset to the background to add more variety in color as well as dimension. I then used the smudge tool to make the sky blend better. To create even more dimension, I applied a drop shadow to the mountains and an inner shadow to the pool to make it seem inside of the sidewalk.

Next, I made a brush of a pool chair and added it onto the sidewalk for the later placement of the deer. To add more depth, I added a gradient overlay. Lastly, I used the brush tool to draw a deer laying down, and completed the project by drawing on headphones.