Here is my Dali Cat test image. I used layer masks to cut out the mustache and eyes of Salvador Dali and placed them onto the cat using the free transform tool. I have never used layer masks before until this exercise through the step by step help provided. Using layer masks seems to be helpful because the original image does not get edited therefore preserved. 

Technically what was difficult about this project was being able to organize all the images, layers and effects for the objects. Conceptually I chose to create a contrast between the heavenly figure Jesus and the Rio de Janero background by giving Jesus an angelic type of look and giving Rio de Janero a sort of burning apocalyptic look. Giving two different effects to each image was possible by selecting the Jesus figure with magic lasso, copying and pasting it onto a new layer on top of the original image. I first adjusted the image contrast on both the background and Jesus then I applied effects to them. With the statue I used a glowing edges effect with linear dodge. With the background of Rio I used dark strokes effect.

Tip Trick on Smart Objects

Step 1: Find an Image, copy it, open new in Photoshop. then paste copied image onto canvas. Photoshop will automatically create the canvas with the same dimensions as the image you have copied onto your clipboard.

Step 2: Select object using magnetic lasso, control click selected object, and click on layer via copy. This will copy the selected object and paste into a new layer.

Step 3: Convert new layer into smart object

Step 4: Add Effects. You can toggle effects on and off with smart layers.

Proposal

Having worked with digital media before, I would want to improve the skills I have and learn new ones. I am also looking forward to transitioning some of the digital skills I posses into the physical realm. My interests when it comes to art would be the abstract. Searching through the web for abstract artists I came across František Kupka who has some work that are composed of linear shapes that contort like in Amorpha to more edgy works like in white . I am also into monuments like the Golden Gate Bridge or the Angel of Independence from Mexico DF, which I finally got to see this summer. I also have a fascination for urban art like graffiti. When I was in Mexico DF this past summer I roamed the streets and came across various street art works. Majority of the works were on walls of local businesses and there were also a few that were huge murals that took up the side of a whole building. I am hoping to merge my interests of the abstract, monuments, and urban art to maybe make an abstract urban type monument.

Rio