For this project, I followed the class instructions to capture a vibrant prairie grassland scene. This was actually my very first time learning gouache, so it was definitely a bit challenging to get used to the medium! Because I didn't have the exact same colors as the instructor, I had to mix and improvise with what I had at home to match the tones.

My Process & Key Takeaways:

 The Sky & Clouds: Spent some extra time layering the blues and blending out the white gouache to get those fluffy, layered summer clouds.

 The Background: Kept the distant hills simple and warm to contrast against the cool sky.

 The Grassland & Details: Layered darker tones at the base and used expressive strokes to bring out the texture of the wildflowers and wild grass in the foreground.

While it was difficult to figure out the consistency and blending at first, it was a fantastic exercise in capturing texture, light, and open space. I’m really happy with how my first gouache study turned out, and I will definitely keep practicing to get better!

Thank you for a wonderful class!