Thank you for taking the time to have a look at my blog, and an even bigger thank you for posting your comment

I think your point about the contrast between the icons on the upper left and the burst is a good one. Making the wallpaper a little darker would improve the contrast on the desktop icons.

The wallpaper is actually the default Leopard design (or at least one that comes bundled with the OS). Its name I believe is the Aurora.

I was actually thinking about changing the wallpaper to something darker, but can’t decide exactly what I want. Laugh out loud

I plan to continue improving the look over the next few weeks and would love to have your feedback on it

Thank you again,

Silver Fox

I found your blog from the ubuntu site. I was thinking about getting involved with the art & design end but not sure yet.

I read many of your replies and found them to be very accurate. I agreed with all of them.

Without knowing your thoughts behind the layout I will give you my artistic opinion.

(For my own wallpaper)
I pick one of my own photos that is rather neutral in design. In other words one that usually does not compete with all of my icons. Thus I have the contrast I want to find any shortcut I am looking for.

In other words… I like the contrast you left yourself at the bottom, these icons are easily recognized. The ones on the upper left are a little more of a challenge.

Would you consider a smaller light burst or maybe a medium value light burst. Allowing for a value change with the icons. Also you may consider toning down the center of the burst. This will give you a larger dark area for more icons and create a strong 3 dimensional depth. (since darker colors tend to recede. Toning down your burst will also allow your star patterns to become more visible.

Without knowing what your intentions of the design were I may be over opinionated.

Your design concept is strong and will allow you to create many variations.

The burst reminds me of the Great Northern Lights.
(Aurora Borealis)

I am currently working on a new website design. I have it posted on another domain name I use for temp sites.

You may contact me directly, I would like to hear the explanation of your design before I comment any more.

Thanks for your time….TAG