Learning objectives
■ Work with a mixed-media approach
■ An introduction to mark making with pastels
■ Use a limited palette
MIKE'S TOP TIP FOR SOFT PASTELS
When you use your fingers to blend soft pastels it becomes a very tactile painting experience. The side of your little finger is a good tool, as it avoids the oil from the tip and can work on quite small details. There are other tools such as Q-tips, cotton wool, sponges or make-up applicators, but it pays to experiment. Just remember, keep it soft. The more abrasive the tool, the more the pastel will be worn away from the surface.
My articles in have been concerned with the use of acrylic paint, as I use it tor most of my artwork. I do however use other media and soft pastels are a favourite tor immediacy and impact. They usually have bad press tor being ‘dirty’ and hard to handle, but in the right hands they can be delicate and produce wonderfully soft, detailed paintings - and paintings they are, not drawings. I like to use: them in
