Pastels

Soft, Luminous and Alive Pastels

Working in such a spontaneous and rich media as pastels has many rewards.  The instant application of color and shape as well as the ability to blend colors to the exact hue desired are two of the most important aspects of working in pastel.  There are, however, many differences in them and many different manufacturers from which to make your selection.

Cost is one aspect of any art material that seems paramount to the artist.  You might ask yourself why there is such a wide spectrum of differences in the costs you encounter.  Pigment content is the main reason.  The more rich and luscious pigment you have, the more coloring power and the higher the cost.  The best suggestion is to try different brands to find one that affords you the best coverage, the widest color range and the best value.  One way to explore the differences is to select a limited color palette and purchase the same tones in different brands.  Do tests to see which ones work best with your style and manner of application. 

Soft and hard pastels give two different looks to artwork.  Soft pastels render a smooth, rich line that seems to be floating on the surface of the paper.  Hard pastels give bold, well defined lines and are great for sharp, clean definition.  Both have wonderful application possibilities for different creative needs.

Storage of sticks and pieces in drawers or small cartons, grouped by color family, facilitates quick retrieval.  Selecting a portable unit in which to store your pastels makes field work/plein air work easier.  And when one color migrates to other sticks, sprinkle dry rice/wheat grains in the storage drawers; the abrasion helps the pastels to stay nice and clean. 

See your retailer for all your creative needs when working with pastels:  General’s Pastel Chalk Pencils from General Pencil Co.; Sennelier Soft and Oil Pastels from Savoir Faire; and various fine pastel papers from Strathmore and Borden & Riley.

Copyright ARTtalk Vol. 17 No. 6 — April 2007