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I don't want to create realistic renders, that's the LAST thing I want. 

Once you move away from realistic the possibilities for styles, effects etc are endless. Pretty difficult for people to give you useful critique if you are the only one who knows what sort of non-realistic 'look' you have in mind.

I think it would be useful if you found an image that you really like, post it and say exactly what you like about it, then the pros here can tell you how to get there.