Adobe Illustrator - Learning the (VERY) Basics

I spent yesterday attempting to learn and understand Adobe Illustrator - it wasn't easy, and I'm sure I'm not using it correctly. I had great fun using my new scanner to scan in some of Barbara's artwork, and then using the 'object mosaic' and 'swatches' to separate and pair colours.

I don't have much to show for this but I've put my first attempt below...I love the colours, but think the shapes need to be a little smaller and have more background between them. I'll have a go at tweaking it later, but right now I don't think it's terrible for a first attempt!

Original Artwork:

First Test Design:

I love the greys and the beige, but I need to try and pick out more of the yellow/green from the right hand side, and the browns from the left

Thoughts appreciated :)

Kim xx


EDIT: Looking at them together like that, it's very difficult to see the link. I think this design needs to be more linear to reflect the use of the hessian which gives the amazing texture. Still, it's only a first attempt!

Kim xx