Landscape Illustration

To create a landscape artwork, you can use various materials like ink, pencil, watercolors, or even a mix of these. Feel free to choose the medium that you enjoy or are familiar with. Here's a simple step-by-step process I follow to illustrate a landscape.

Looking for Inspiration

I love traveling to inspiring places, sparking my imagination. Even exploring close to home can uncover scenes for creative beauty.

Take walks in your neighborhood to find things that inspire you for art and photography.

This is Lake Monona in Madison, Wisconsin. We lived here for nearly two years. We enjoyed walking and biking around this lovely lake.

This is my favorite spot by the lake Monona to sit and relax. I love the way the blue sky and green surroundings contrast, especially the tree in the front. Its branch leaning forward adds character to the view .

Here's how I create an illustration of the lovely view of Lake Monona.

Sketching a Thumbnail

First, I make a rough sketch (thumbnail) for the composition. You can make as many sketches as you like. Then, you should be happy with the composition you've created. After that, you can add shading (values) to your sketch and use it as a reference when adding colors to your illustration.

Illustrating and Coloring

At this point, I look at the small image I made earlier and begin drawing the scene with a thin pointed pen (I draw lines to create the picture). Then, I add color using watercolor pencils. You can use any medium you like. I personally enjoy using watercolor pencils.

Coloring in Layers

After applying the initial layer of color and using a brush pen to wash, I add more colors in stages to match the values I created in the thumbnail. I really like coloring this way. Eventually, the illustration starts to come together and the scene becomes more vibrant.

The Outcome

Here it is, a result of creativity and imagination. I'm pleased with the artwork. I'm also open to feedback and always striving to improve each time I do this.

Thank you for your time :)

Painting Sold Out, Prints Available
This beautiful painting of Lake Monona called 'Lake Side Painting -1' is no longer in stock. However, if you're interested, you can still buy a print of it by clicking on the following link: Lake side painting -1 Print