looks neat - i do enjoy the paint treament - in the right context. however, for the second photo, i think that people in them should be close up or portriat style - so their features are large enough for the paint effect, or they should be small enough so you dont try to relate with the actual features of the person - more of just the idea of the people in the "painting"
Although I agree the paint treatment is cool, being an outside and not knowing your son, the second one is akward. However, you already having a relationship with the identity in the photo, probably makes you relate easier than us outsiders. I am new to the forum, but i thought that was what the whole C&C thing is for, to get a better understanding of how other will percieve your photos so you can improve. No need to get upset when asking for others opinions, its not like they are putting you down or anything, they are giving the opinion so you can gain their perseptions and add it to future photos.
For me being a beginner to the hobby - i like the first one, the second one is OK but since it is a beach scene there are a few items that do not fit - had he been bare foot, holding a surf board, or something else - would put it in better perspective to relate to.
Either way - if you like the style - keep it up!