I want to look at and download the pictures and text messages I have on i cloud. how do i do that?

If you have iCloud Photos turned on, the photos on the device are the same as on iCloud, with the possible exception that some of them may be space-saving optimized versions if you have that option turned on. You view them in the Photos app on an iOS device or Mac. You can also login to icloud.com and go to the Photos app there. The following Apple article has information about iCloud Photos: Set up and use iCloud Photos - Apple Support

If you didn't have iCloud Photos turned on but do have an iCloud backup, you can restore the entire phone (not just the photos) from iCloud but you cannot otherwise view the contents of the backup. The following Apple article has information about backup: Restore your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch from a backup - Apple Support

Also, you cannot view text messages at iCloud.com. See the following from Keep your messages up to date with iCloud - Apple Support

When you set up iCloud for Messages, your messages are stored in the cloud instead of locally on your device. You can see them on any device that’s set up for iCloud and Messages, including your iPhone, iPad, iPod touch, and Mac.