Creating my 8 x 10-inch oil painting of an ocean portrait featuring dolphins, a killer whale, smaller fish, and marlins set against an undersea background of coral and the deep blue sea was a deeply immersive experience. The challenge was capturing the fluidity and dynamic movement of marine life within such a compact canvas.

I began with careful sketching to establish the composition, ensuring each species had its space yet contributed to a harmonious scene. Layering thin washes of blues and greens, I gradually built the depth of the sea, balancing light and shadow to evoke the mysterious vastness beneath the surface. Detailed brushwork brought the animals to life, emphasizing the glossy textures of the dolphins and killer whale alongside the vivid colors of the smaller fish and marlins.

Painting the coral required a shift to more intricate detailing, contrasting the softness of the creatures with the rugged underwater landscape. Throughout the process, blending colors smoothly was essential to replicate the underwater light refraction and movement, enhancing the overall realism.

This journey deepened my appreciation for marine environments and taught me new techniques in layering and color blending within the oil medium. The final piece reflects not just the biodiversity of ocean life but also the serene yet powerful essence of the deep blue sea.

You can watch the full painting process by clicking on the video link available on YouTube. This detailed walkthrough offers insight into the techniques and steps involved in creating the artwork from start to finish.