Cows Grazing Near a River Encounter Naked Swimmers

Sketch the basic composition, focusing on the placement of the river, trees, figures, and cows.

Establish the background by painting the sky and distant trees with soft, blended colors.

Block in the main shapes of the trees and foliage, using a variety of greens and yellows.

Begin to define the figures and cows, paying attention to their proportions and anatomy.

Add details to the foliage, creating texture and depth with smaller brushstrokes.

Paint the reflections in the water, using slightly darker and more muted versions of the colors above.

Refine the details of the figures and cows, adding highlights and shadows to create form.

Add final touches, such as the flowers in the foreground and the subtle details in the trees.