First, very early sketch of my initial idea.

I decided to draw a view of a swamp with some abandoned huts.

This was such a big project I had a hard time with starting to render it, so I distracted myself with basic shading of the trees.

Here I finally decided on the background colors and was able to finish it!

Can't forget about the water, an important part of an overall illustration.

Last touches. After adding light, the piece is finished.