Sometimes it’s good to look at our own backyards with fresh eyes. We realize the beauty of our surroundings and notice things we might have missed. A change of season can help with that, or an unfamiliar bird or animal. Here, gorgeous autumn colors caught my eye!
1" (2.5cm) flat brush, no. 8 round brush, assorted watercolor pigments, watercolor journal or sketchbook
STEP ONE: Capture the Image
I was intrigued by the glow among the trees (it was more pronounced in reality than it is in the photo).
STEP TWO: Simplify and Wash
I applied wet-in-wet washes of Hansa Yellow Medium with a touch of Phthalo Blue for the color of the woods.
STEP THREE: Lift and Scrape Color
While the background wash was still damp, I lifted the suggestion of light trunks with a brush dampened with clean water. Then I scraped some lines in with the edge of an expired credit card.
STEP FOUR: Add Tree Shapes
I applied a bit of Burnt Sienna spatter for lively interest. I wanted variety in the spatter drops, both in size and value, so they weren’t too mechanical. As the background wash began to dry, I add the first tree trunks using a Burnt Sienna and Ultramarine Blue mixture.
STEP FIVE: Apply Final Touches
I added more tree trunks, shadows and a suggestion of leaves with more Burnt Sienna mixed with orange.