9012 Serenity Bay
Jerry Yarnell – Inspiration of Painting PBS Television Series

A calm bay reflects the golden glow of a setting sun, with a lone sailboat drifting across still water as distant mountains and dramatic clouds frame the peaceful scene. In this beginner level acrylic painting lesson, Jerry guides you step-by-step through creating this tranquil seascape in an 85 minute session on an 18x24 canvas, capturing the beauty of light, reflection, and atmosphere at day’s end.

You’ll learn how to build a strong composition using the horizon line, silhouetted elements, and reflective water to guide the viewer’s eye. Jerry demonstrates how to block in major shapes first, then refine them with controlled brushwork to maintain balance and clarity.

Special focus is given to painting glowing sunset effects and reflections on water, using layered color and soft blending to create smooth transitions and depth. You’ll also explore how to paint clouds and distant landforms with subtle value changes that enhance the overall mood.

By the end of this lesson, you’ll gain confidence in painting seascapes, handling reflective surfaces, and creating atmosphere through light and color. This is an excellent project for beginners looking to develop foundational skills while producing a calm and visually striking coastal scene.