I personally like 2 more. It has easier to read shapes. I think both are awesome though. But definitely 2 cause of the high value contrast and readability.
Number one is more interesting to me. Nice stuff I'm excited to see your progress
I love the hammerhead - more opportunity for unique shape design!
22 days later
Here is my WIP so far for the final illustartion, hopefully get to finish this one before deadline! really fun image to work on so far!
Though it's not finished I already crave your rendering and work with light o.o I hope you finish it in time! ^^
Wow, this is gonna be awesome! I watched some of your streams and I see you cropped into the character more
small update from this afternoons stream, more noodling 
This is so delightful to look at. Such a fun concept. 
Wow! Looks awesome!
Damn!! Love the way you paint light. This is looking great
@s-stark hey thanks so much!
@I_Kosinov cheers!
@josierichmond hey thanks! catch me painting it on twitch, I often talk about what im doing and answer questions https://www.twitch.tv/heath_alex
Hey !
Awesome design, I love the pirate theme so much.
Great illustration, we can really feel the strenght of your shark. The octopus is an amazing add to your illustration, he add more depth and the painting really more interesting with him and his funny face !
Keep going
I don't know how I haven't seen this yet but damn this is pretty impeccable! The sense of form is so nice. Some feedback I can offer though is that because the sun's out, maybe tinging the highlights with a touch of yellow to compliment the overall blue of the piece?
I'm late to the party but I finally found your entry!! So cool to see you there this year too!
And I love the idea you had it's so cool!!! Pirate shark! It can only be super badass! Awesome work so far!
Looks awesome already! 
