Soft Pastel

 New class . . . this time soft pastels. I brought out and dusted off my Aunt Carrie’s ancient soft pastel set and supplemented them with pastel pencils. Very much out of my comfort zone here but enjoying a novel, unexplored medium taught by a fabulous instructor, Anastasia Seraya. Such an interesting medium. Loving the minimalist aspect of very limited materials, and spreading chalk with just fingers was a very organic experience, somewhat akin to childhood finger painting. Blending colors was enjoyable. 

Dandelion & Ladybug (that’s one giant ladybug!)

Graceful Panther (looks more like my cat Missy because the snout is too short . . Hmmmmm. I guess she rules the house like a panther, and she is certainly a graceful feline.)

Juicy Cherry (Lacking the soft pastel colors required, I improvised. Meh. I wish the water drops looked more realistic.)

Amanita (I did not have the correct materials for this one. It called for brown Pastelmat abrasive paper; I only had tan sketchbook paper. I did not have the correct pastel colors; I improvised. I also learned that gel pens and acrylic paint pens do not work on top of soft pastels, which totally makes sense now that I think of it - duh. Ultimately, I cheated by using some white and red acrylic paint for finishing touches - don’t tell my instructor. I might try this one again on fine sandpaper and see how that works.)

Lemon Mood


Aunt Carrie’s set of soft pastels. Well used and loved. Her artistic hands touched these; I’m moved.








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