First Cuckoo of the Year at Tsukudajima

Sketch the basic composition, including the horizon line, boat positions, and building outlines.

Block in the large areas of color: the sky, water, and land masses.

Layer the sky with gradations of blue, white, and orange, creating the sunset effect.

Paint the water with varying shades of blue, adding reflections of the boats and buildings.

Add details to the boats, including the hulls, masts, and cargo.

Paint the buildings with simple shapes and colors, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.

Add the trees and foliage, using a variety of greens and browns.

Refine the details and add highlights and shadows to create depth and dimension.