Nathan Smith lettering framed by rows of blue, white and yellow patterned tiles

Inspiration: Nathan Smith

Originally Published June 2010

Nathan Smith creates beautiful, intricate images using Photoshop and fractal art. (Check out this article for more about fractals and fractal generators.) The photo above, “Abstract Fractal,” is composed mainly of elements created in Photoshop. The carved gold is made using layer styles applied to paths, all within Photoshop. The jewels (a signature part of many works by Smith) are also made in Photoshop. Nathan Smith shares his knowledge and his many striking images in his Deviant Art gallery. The gallery has a page of tutorials where you can learn how these fantastic images are made. Smith has generously provided an enormous page full of Photoshop tutorials and videos on the Utah State University site. You can download many of Smith’s desktop artworks on the Caedes website. As you can see, Nathan Smith’s generosity is as incredible as his artistic ability, which is considerable. It gives me great pleasure to share some of his work with you.

Nathan Smith’s Abstract Fractal, with teal gemstones, gold curves and intricate symmetrical patterns

Nathan Smith’s Dream, with a glowing red and gold star surrounded by ornamental shapes

Detail of Nathan Smith’s Glory, showing radiant colored light inside an ornate circular frame

$Glowing amber sphere over orange, purple and blue fractal patterns by Nathan Smith$

Oval blue and green eye-like jewel against a red background with gold ornament by Nathan Smith

Nathan Smith’s Heart of Glass, with a golden heart-shaped jewel and symmetrical green and gold patterns

Nathan Smith’s Wyoming, showing a pale blue ornamental circular design against flowing light

Nathan Smith’s Crystal Cave, with layered angular white and gold forms above blue light

For another perspective on creative image-making, read my article on photography and art.

Danny Kosmayer