To start this painting I created a mottled background of mint, turquoise and some gold/copper.  I shaped in an inukshuk rock formation, and once that was completed, the stones felt desert-like to me, in their textured turquoise and rich rust colors.  I added the lizards, basking in the hot sun.  This painting is sealed with Kamar and UV-resistant varnishes for a nice gloss sheen.
If you would like to see this painting being made, please check out my YouTube channel.