Delicate Watercolors for Narrative Illustration

Cécile Metzger starts by introducing herself and talking about her journey through the world of illustration. She tells us all about inspiration and reveals the secrets of where to find it and how to nurture it. With her helpful guidance, understand the importance of the narrative dimension in illustration.

It's time to get drawing! To begin, make a preparatory sketch using a photo and, by way of a few simple exercises, identify the character for your painting and sketch some plant patterns. Choose an animal that perfectly embodies your character!

Cécile teaches you how to create a color palette and add texture with the watercolors by playing around with opacity and different brushes. It doesn't take long to realize the myriad of possibilities that watercolor has to offer.

Now you've got the techniques down, make a start on your final composition. Start by transferring your sketch to watercolor paper and paint the flat wash using titanium white. Cécile shares some handy tips for adding extra details to your animal character and its outfit, then get to work painting the plants.

She shows you how to digitize your design and enhance it using Photoshop, removing any dust spots and adjusting the levels. Finally, see just how easy it is to share your work on social media and showcase it at an exhibition to reveal your talent to the world!