plate no. 3232

Storm, Bahamas

watercolor, paperRealismlandscapeskycloudstreespalm treesbeachocean

some experience helpful

This painting offers practice in creating atmospheric perspective and depicting the effects of weather on a landscape. Students will learn to control watercolor washes and create a sense of depth through value and color variations.

technical profile

palette complexity

brushwork visibility

value contrast

compositional simplicity

study guide

est. 6 hrs

approach — 8 steps

step 01
Lightly sketch the main elements: horizon line, position of trees, and the path.
step 02
Apply a light wash of diluted grey/blue for the sky, leaving some areas lighter for clouds.
step 03
While the sky is still damp, drop in darker greys and blacks to create the storm clouds.
step 04
Paint the ocean with a light blue wash, adding darker blues and greens near the horizon.
step 05
Apply a light tan wash for the beach and path, allowing it to dry.
step 06
Add darker browns and greens to the beach to create texture and shadows.
step 07
Paint the palm trees with dark greens and blacks, suggesting movement with the brushstrokes.
step 08
Add final details and highlights to the trees and beach.

color palette

primary · Payne's Grey · Burnt Umber · Cerulean Blue

secondary · Yellow Ochre · Sap Green

Mix Payne's Grey with Burnt Umber for the dark tones in the sky and trees. Use Cerulean Blue for the ocean, and add a touch of Payne's Grey to create depth.

techniques