Fiddler Papercut (2 versions)

So here is the finished item (top image). I can't help thinking that the smoke swirls aren't helping the picture though. So below, I have photoshopped out the smoke, just to see how it looks. I'm kind of leaning towards the smokeless version.

This fiddler just seems more solitary and focussed without all the smoke surrounding him. All opinions are very welcome!

Fiddler Papercut (work in progress)

I thought I'd try something a little different. This piece is only half done, but sometimes it's fun to see something before it's finished. The idea is that the leaves and birds are the music emanating from the fiddle, mingling with the smoky swirls coming from the chimneys. I'm not sure if it's going to come out exactly how I pictured it in my jet-lagged brain at 4am the other morning - or maybe it's going to come out EXACTLY as I pictured it in my jet-lagged brain - and is that a good thing - who knows??? Anyway, I'll post up the finished item and you can all decide for yourselves!

Monterey Bay Aquarium - Seahorse Silhouettes

I just got back from a trip to California where I saw these gorgeous silhouettes decorating the entrance to the new Seahorse exhibit at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. The top image is a large illuminated panel and the bottom image is a full-height metal gate. I think they're lovely and wanted to share them!