Use a reference photograph such as this to paint a beautiful desert scene.
Anyone can draw an outline picture for a desert landscape painting with a few easy tricks and techniques. Using watercolor paint is ideal if you are in a time crunch because it dries quickly and cleans up without much hassle. However, the method below will work with any type of paint you choose. Using a reference photograph allows you to work on the landscape at any time or place---even if you cannot make a trip to the desert to draw and paint.
Instructions
Draw a Pencil Outline
1. Select a sturdy sheet of heavy-duty watercolor paper (or the paper appropriate for the paint you have chosen to use).
2. Draw the horizon line across the paper to give the outline drawing a feeling of dimension.
3. Create a vanishing point by sketching a road that disappears into the horizon line. Consider adding a desert road to your sketch even if your reference photograph does not include one.
4. Sketch mountains directly behind the horizon line to add even more depth to the outline drawing. Examine your reference picture to see how the mountains in the background are actually behind the horizon line.
Paint the Desert Landscape
5. Use the photograph as a reference to mix together colors that closely match those seen in the image. Keep in mind that your painting does not have to look exactly like the photograph. Use your imagination.
6. Paint in a vibrant blue sky. Add puffy white clouds to give it intensity. Instead of a brush, you can use a sponge to dab on the clouds.
7. Paint in the background mountains.
8. Paint in the desert floor.
9. Look closely at the reference photograph to see what type of vegetation lives on the desert floor. Use fine detail brushes to paint in desert brush, rocks and cacti.
