how to paint a sunflower field in watercolours

How to paint sunflowers in watercolour – loose, bold and full of light

If you've ever wanted to paint a field of sunflowers but dreaded the thought of rendering every single petal, this lesson is for you. In this watercolour video tutorial, we keep things free, loose and joyful – because sunflowers should feel like sunshine, not hard work.

What you'll learn

This tutorial focuses on bold brush marks and expressive colour variations, using negative painting to pull your composition into focus without overworking the surface. It's a technique that gives your painting life and energy while keeping your process relaxed and intuitive.

We also explore how to create a convincing sense of depth across a sunflower field – moving from detailed, larger blooms in the foreground, through softer mid-ground shapes, to painterly suggestion in the background. Along the way, you'll discover how warm and cool colour temperature can do as much work as detail when it comes to recession and atmosphere.

Whether you're a beginner looking to build confidence or an experienced painter wanting to loosen up, this is a lesson you'll enjoy coming back to.

Watch the tutorial and happy painting!

Want to paint along?

Happy painting!