8952 Chama Mountains
Jerry Yarnell – Inspiration of Painting PBS Television Series Beginner Acrylic lesson.

Towering mountain cliffs rise above a forest of aspens and evergreens as soft atmospheric light washes across the distant landscape. Inspired by the rugged beauty of the Chama region of New Mexico, this peaceful scene captures the grandeur of rocky mountain formations, rolling valleys, and colorful woodland forests. In this beginner acrylic painting lesson, Jerry guides you step-by-step through creating this beautiful mountain landscape on an 18x24 canvas during a 73 minute lesson.

You’ll learn how to create depth and distance using atmospheric perspective, softened values, and layered mountain ranges. Jerry demonstrates how to establish the major landforms first, then gradually develop the dramatic cliff face, distant hills, evergreen trees, and graceful stands of aspens while maintaining proper perspective and balance throughout the composition.

Special focus is given to painting rocky cliffs, mountain formations, aspen trees, evergreen forests, atmospheric distance, and soft landscape lighting using layered color, controlled brushwork, and carefully blended transitions. You’ll also explore techniques for creating realistic tree groupings and convincing mountain textures that bring the rugged scenery to life.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll gain confidence in painting western mountain landscapes, forests, and atmospheric effects while learning how to combine dramatic geological features with peaceful natural surroundings. This is an excellent beginner project for artists wanting to strengthen their acrylic painting skills while creating a beautiful southwestern mountain scene filled with depth and natural beauty.