I created this piece to demonstrate how I paint stylized houseplant illustrations from a reference photo in this class. Below, I'll take you through some of the stages of its evolution.

Here's the reference image (from Unsplash) I used to inspire my illustration:

 

I started by drawing a pencil sketch as a guide for my illustration, observing the reference image and simplifying it as I drew. 

 

Next, I mixed a pastel pink color for the background, loaded up a big round brush brush with this paint and painted in the background, without worrying about painting around all the minute details of the plant. 

 

Then, using a medium sized brush, I put down all the base colours of the planter in flat layers. 

 

I identify the direction of light in the reference image and use that information to paint some shadows falling on the planter. 

 

Next, I move on to painting the plant itself, starting with the midtones.

 

I add some highlights using a lighter green and then some yellow to bring the leaves to life with some more dimension. 

 

Finally, I identify the darkest areas around the body of the plant and paint these areas with a deep shade of green to indicate the darkest shadow areas. 

 

And ta da! This is my final illustrated piece :) 

 

Watch me create this piece from start to finish here. I cover everything from paint consistency to sketching and layering the paint and you'll get to see all the little decisions I make as I recreate the reference image in my own style. 

What do you think of how this turned out?