Net feature with articles, demonstrations and resources on painting and fine art along with chats, board discussions and exhibits. Studio Resources Watercolors Making Waves in Watercolor Ocean waves are fascinating to watch but can be challenging to draw or paint because they are constantly changing. If you are vacationing at the beach you can study the waves, sketch them directly or take photographs for use later. Even if you can't go to the ocean in person, painting waves is a fun and relaxing pastime.
Any subject is a matter of contrasting light and dark values.
The tops of ocean waves are usually white with frothy foam as they curl over to approach the land. The underside of the wave is in shadow and appears darker than surrounding water. The line where lightest and darkest values meet is the strongest contrast and most interesting to the eye. Just for fun, paint a simplified wave. Use permanent blue and burnt sienna watercolors and several scraps of watercolor paper, preferably rough.