I wanted to go for something like this.
First, I added puddles of water.
I used the Chinese character for Water (shui), bevel and emboss to give it a solid shape. I also added noise to give it a slight texture.
I shaded the highlighs and shadows.
I made it look 3D. (slightly)
I added the water splashes one by one, following the characters, predicting the water flow and splashes. I also sharpen the water splashes that is facing front, and blur the water splashes in the background.
I added transparent (white) water splashes to give it depth.
I added a brighter glow on the edges of the character, setting it to overlay to blend the white glow with the blue.
Turns out the top one is a real messed up bugger, so I decided to make a new one. Thank cheese for trial and error.
I redid the type, but used the same character. The bevel and emboss this time is different, along with the gradient.
I added shadows and light, putting the layer into overlay.
I added the puddles below, aiming for a cleaner, symmetrical overview. I start adding the water splashes from there.
First, the middle flow. I used a soft round brush, 40% opacity and flow to lightly brush the edges of the water splashes to give it depth.
Left flow.
Right flow. Overall, the water streams look uneven and messy, with inconsistent gaps and currents.
I added a bit of light to the whole image, giving the water a translucent look. I also sharpened the water splashes, making them stand out.
I played with the colour balance again, giving it a cooler, icy feel with the overall cyan hue.
Finally, I used a soft round brush and lightly brush the water, softening it and giving it a mystical and shimmering feel.
Final outcome.
