How to paint a realistic tulip in watercolour
One of my FAVOURITE things about nature is the way it makes complex forms appear incredibly simple.
Tulips are a prime example. With their uncomplicated petal structure and upright growth habit, they’re the picture of simplicity.
But it can actually be quite a challenge to paint a realistic tulip, especially when you enlarge it.
Because when you study them really closely, you start to notice that they’re hiding a world of complexity.
There are subtle colour changes and quite drastic tonal shifts. The satin-like petals have a gentle sheen and stripy visual texture. Together, these components work in harmony to create the illusion of simplicity.
In this mini-class, I show you how to bring all of those complex elements together to paint a realistic tulip that looks detailed, yet simple.
If you’ve felt inspired by this video and would like to paint your own realistic tulip, I’d love to hear how you get on, so please let me know in the comments below.
And if you’d like to try a more complex tulip, you can find a free mini class for that here.
Please do leave a comment if you’ve enjoyed watching. Reading your comments inspires me so much.
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A wonderful
Thanks I learned about transition zones and more.
🌷
Thank you Anna, I have so enjoyed your videos over the years and find them very meditative as your voice is calming. Hoping you and your new family are well. Regards from Newport, Rhode Island.
Thank you Anna. Beautiful job.
Beautful image – and wonderful sense of humour!!
Sitting here in Australia on a wet day, with a broken upper arm, I was feeling quiet, ‘bla’. switched on the computer to see your sweet smiling face Anna, I have decided to paint, all day! Pear or Tulip?
Thanks for the inspiration!
Glee.
As always – inspiring, beautiful, and a joy to watch.
Thank you .
Beautiful! You make it look so easy, but a little overwhelming to me separating out the tones. Someday I hope to take some of your classes. I did your pear tutorial and that came out really well. Flowers are difficult I think, but I do want to paint them. Thank you for this little video of a big tulip.
Hi, I’m from Brazil. I love your watercolors and intend to take your course. Thank you for sharing such amazing works!
Great tulip
Thank you for another informative video. I just forwarded it to a friend who asked me who I have learned from. I am self teaching through online videos from many artists. I find your explanations of the process thorough and easy to understand. My art has improved since watching your videos. Thank you.