Pastels 101 - Learn More

Let’s get you oriented to the course so you know what to expect.

There’s a balance between spending too much time finding the perfect location and getting started. This lesson will show you how to choose wisely and efficiently. You’ll also discover the value of a viewfinder!

Learn about the importance of thumbnails sketches. Create a three-value thumbnail that captures the pattern of light and shade by squinting.

This video inventories materials to take on site and also how to setup.

The first thing to do when working on a pastel on location is to get the big shapes blocked in. You’ll see how to use your thumbnail sketch as a guide to help determine the three values areas. Then use three colours corresponding in value to the three values in your thumbnail – light, middle, and dark.

Once the basic big shapes (the abstract ‘underpainting’) are in, start layering on colour making sure to retain the original value pattern. Discover why it’s valuable to consider the addition of each new colour. See how to ‘mix’ colour right on the paper by layering the pastels.

Beginning to work on the plein air painting in the studio. Discover why the luxury of time is a blessing and a curse. Be reminded of the value of frequently viewing your painting from a distance. See why working with a limited value creates colour harmony. Realize the benefit of working with a light touch when it comes to layering.

In this video you’ll be reminded about using simultaneous contrast and aerial perspective to create that illusion of landscape. Now it’s time to begin putting in the details. It’s important to make sure you are working from the painting itself not trying to match the photo you took of the scene! You’ll see how using a mat can help point out weak areas.

It’s time to step back and review what’s happening in the painting. Does the viewer follow the visual path you want them to take? If not then it’s time to do something about that. This short video shows you some of the things to look for to determine how well your painting is accomplishing what you want it to do.

Having made an assessment of the painting, it’s time to add the final strokes that will bring the painting to a successful conclusion. Learn why working from the photo of the scene will have a negative effect on the final piece and why working from your sketches, memory and the painting itself is more valuable. Hear some tips to see how your painting is doing.

You’re done! But remember to sign your work. Let’s have a closer look at how to do that. And if the painting’s not going straight into a frame, then be sure to protect it.

We all have that negative talker with us. Here are some tips on how to manage your negativity!

This is an audio-only interview where I explain some of the thought processes behind choosing a scene to paint.

This video will show you how to use a viewfinder and the many benefits of using one.

This video will show you the process I go through to clean my soft pastels…something we must always take the time to do!