I got a model from Daz3D and applied an image of an abstract design I made to its body. Created a backdrop using planes and applied two light sources above the model to which I rendered using Arnold. This was my first time using the rendering plug-in and I believe that this was a successful experiment.
I now know how to adjust the light settings and the render settings so that I can get the best quality when I make my animation. This experiment also helped me envision what the final outcome will look like and now I can plan towards that.
The images below show screenshots of the process, render settings and the final outcome.