In this lesson, you will paint a moody seascape illustration from imagination. Gary Meyer will guide you in blocking in the sky and water with gradients, then teach you how to construct waves using the pyramid-form method, applying planes and light logic to create realistic reflections. By layering foam patterns, transparent and opaque passages, and adding a boat, you’ll have the skills to paint a dynamic, believable ocean scene with depth and movement.

This lesson belongs to the course Classic Illustration Crash Course. In this 11-week course, master illustrator Gary Meyer guides you through the essential principles of classic illustration, focusing on perspective, light, and form to create dynamic, fully realized compositions. Designed for students looking to build believable illustrations without reliance on reference, this course emphasizes logical, procedural approaches to drawing and painting in acrylic. You’ll begin with foundational exercises in linear perspective, applying these principles to construct buildings, vehicles, and street scenes. As the course progresses, Gary will guide you through painting landscapes and natural environments with atmospheric lighting, as well as man-made environments, cars, and airplanes with reflective surfaces, all while maintaining a structured and efficient workflow. By the end of this course, you will have developed a diverse skill set to create original, professional-quality illustrations from imagination.

Throughout this course, you’ll have access to the NMA community for feedback and critiques to improve your work as you progress.