Rio de Janeiro Waterfront Skyline

This Rio de Janeiro scene pairs a waterfront skyline with steep mountains and the Christ the Redeemer statue above the city. A small sailboat floats near the curving shore, while palms and a tall streetlamp line the foreground promenade. Clouds and birds dot the sky beneath large outlined city lettering and the script words “Cidade Maravilhosa.”

The building windows, palm fronds, and flowing pavement pattern offer plenty of detail for teens who enjoy taking their time. Broader areas of water, mountains, and sky leave room for softer shading. Try colored pencils for the narrow architectural details, with blue water and green palms to contrast against neutral buildings. Alternate dark and light sections of the promenade pattern for a striking finish.