The Breaking Wave

Sketch the horizon line and the basic shapes of the waves, paying attention to their relative sizes and positions.

Block in the sky with a light blue, creating a smooth, even tone.

Begin layering in the darker turquoise tones of the water, focusing on the areas beneath the waves.

Add the lighter, more white-dominant areas of the breaking waves, using short, broken brushstrokes to suggest foam and spray.

Refine the shapes of the waves, adding details like the curl of the crest and the shadows within the troughs.

Use a dry brush technique to add texture to the water's surface, suggesting the movement of smaller waves and ripples.

Add the birds in the sky with small, delicate brushstrokes.

Make final adjustments to the colors and values, ensuring that the painting has a sense of depth and realism.