7 pastel drawing techniques from the book The Art of Pastel: Discover techniques for creating beautiful works of art in pastel

I haven't worked with pastels in a while but this page from The Art of Pastel: Discover techniques for creating beautiful works of art in pastel is reminding me how versatile a medium it is and makes me want to get them out and do a little experimenting.

Click on this page from The Art of Pastel to read about pastel crosshatching, pointillism, removing pigment, creating patterns, using tape, graduating on a textured support and glazing. Want more pastel techniques? Grab a copy of:

The Art of Pastel:

Discover techniques for creating beautiful works of art in pastel

By

Marla Baggetta, Nathan Rohlander, William Schneider

The velvety strokes of pastel have enchanted fine artists for more than a century. From airy strokes to bold marks and soft hues to vibrant shades, the versatility of pastel makes it suitable for a wide range of subjects and moods. Now anyone can experience this multi-dimensional medium with The Art of Pastel.

Inside this comprehensive guide, five artists provide instruction for using soft, hard, and oil pastel—each sharing his or her unique approach. From portraits and landscapes to rich floral scenes, this book contains a wealth of inspiring images that artists can re-create step by step.

Nathan Rohlander holds an MFA in drawing and painting and a BFA in illustration. He is currently an instructor at Laguna College of Art and Design. Marla Baggetta has been a self-employed, professional artist since 1983. She currently lives in Oregon and holds painting workshops. William Schneider’s oil and pastel artwork has appeared in numerous publications, and he is a member of several artists’ associations. He lives in Illinois with his wife and youngest daughter.

Have a great weekend!

Comments

[Melanie K]

This would be such a great book to have! It covers the mediums I am very curious about at the moment ... thanks for the recommendation!

[Suella]

This is very inspiring. It would be fun to try the various techniques with oil paint sticks on cloth and/or garments. I don't know if the oil pastels are washable?

Has anyone experience with these?

[dipali]

imagination wild and playing with the pastels like a child is what everyone desires,this book would be such a wonderful fairytale.