Discover a new way to paint: Brighton lecturer empowers everyone to create stunning digital landscapes

Procreate Landscapes on the iPad is written by artist and lecturer at the University of Brighton, Phil Tyler, whose creative work spans painting, collage, photography, and digital image-making. He has exhibited widely across the UK, been a finalist twice on Sky’s Portrait Artist of the Year, and recently taught singer Alison Moyet, who graduated from his Fine Art Printmaking BA(Hons) degree course last year.

Drawing on over 30 years of artistic experience, Tyler has now created a guide that’s hands-on, encouraging and full of practical tips. The book includes over 300 illustrations, easy-to-follow exercises, and video tutorials you can access via QR codes. It’s designed to meet readers wherever they are – whether they’re completely new to art or looking to explore a fresh approach to landscape painting.

By breaking down the process into clear, manageable steps, the guide shows how digital tools like Procreate can help artists find direction, try new techniques, and grow their confidence. Tyler also references the work of historical and contemporary masters throughout, showing how digital painting continues a long tradition of observing and interpreting the landscape.

The book is split into two main parts: one on how to draw and paint landscapes, and one on how to use the Procreate app without feeling overwhelmed. Throughout, Tyler encourages readers to explore, experiment, and most importantly, enjoy the process.

Having discovered Procreate in 2020, Tyler now uses it extensively to capture the beauty of the South Downs, the landscape he’s lucky enough to call home. As well as being a practising artist, Tyler is a long-time educator and Senior Lecturer at the university’s School of Art and Media, where he’s helped hundreds of students build creative skills and confidence.

Phil Tyler, Course Leader of Fine Art Printmaking at the University of Brighton said: “Digital painting opens up space for creativity without the physical or financial limitations that can sometimes hold people back. This book is about giving people the skills, knowledge and encouragement to begin – or return to – painting in a way that feels approachable, rewarding, and personal.”

“Whether you're new to art or have years of experience, I hope it helps you discover something new in the process of making.”

This publication reflects the University of Brighton’s commitment to accessible, practice-led learning and community creativity – supporting work that expands who makes art, how it’s taught, and where it’s seen.

Procreate Landscapes on the iPad is published by Crowood Press and is out now.