Pastel

Pastel is a versatile and beautiful artistic medium that can be used to create a wide variety of works of art. It is made from pure powdered pigment that is mixed with a binder, and can be used to create both dry and wet paintings. Pastel is known for its soft, velvety texture and its rich, vibrant colors.

History of Pastel

Pastel has been used as an artistic medium for centuries. Early examples of pastel drawings date back to the 15th century, and the medium became increasingly popular in the 16th and 17th centuries. Pastel was particularly popular among portrait artists, as it allowed them to capture the delicate features and subtle expressions of their subjects.

In the 18th century, pastel reached its peak of popularity. During this time, artists such as Jean-Baptiste Greuze, Maurice Quentin de La Tour, and Elisabeth Vigée Le Brun created some of the most famous and beloved pastel works of art.

Using Pastel

Pastel can be used to create a wide variety of artistic effects. It can be applied dry or wet, and can be blended or layered to create different textures and colors.

Pastel is a versatile medium that can be used to create both realistic and abstract works of art. It is a relatively easy medium to learn, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Types of Pastel

There are two main types of pastel: hard pastel and soft pastel. Hard pastel is made from a mixture of pigment and chalk, and is more durable than soft pastel. Soft pastel is made from a mixture of pigment and gum arabic, and is softer and more crumbly than hard pastel.

Hard pastel is typically used for drawing and sketching, while soft pastel is typically used for painting. However, both types of pastel can be used to create a variety of artistic effects.

Benefits of Learning Pastel

There are many benefits to learning pastel. Pastel is a versatile medium that can be used to create a wide variety of artistic effects. It is relatively easy to learn, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Learning pastel can also help you develop your creativity and your artistic skills. Pastel can be used to create both realistic and abstract works of art, and it can be a great way to express your unique perspective on the world.

Careers in Pastel

There are a number of different careers that you can pursue if you are interested in learning pastel. You could become a pastel artist, a pastel instructor, or a pastel art curator.

Pastel artists create works of art using pastel. They may sell their work through galleries, online, or at art fairs. Pastel instructors teach others how to use pastel. They may work in schools, art centers, or online.

Pastel art curators oversee the care and display of pastel works of art. They may work in museums, galleries, or other institutions.

Online Courses in Pastel

There are a number of online courses that can help you learn pastel. These courses can teach you the basics of pastel, or they can help you develop your existing skills.

Some of the skills that you can learn from online pastel courses include:

• How to choose the right pastels for your needs
• How to use different pastel techniques
• How to create different textures and colors with pastel
• How to compose a pastel painting
• How to frame a pastel painting

Online pastel courses can be a great way to learn about this versatile and beautiful artistic medium. They can help you develop your creativity and your artistic skills, and they can lead to a variety of different careers in the art world.

Is an Online Course Enough?

Online courses can be a great way to learn about pastel, but they are not enough to fully understand this complex medium. Pastel is a hands-on art form, and the best way to learn it is to practice regularly.

If you are serious about learning pastel, you should consider taking a combination of online and in-person courses. This will give you the opportunity to learn from experienced instructors and to practice your skills in a supportive environment.

Conclusion

Pastel is a beautiful and versatile artistic medium that can be used to create a wide variety of works of art. It is a relatively easy medium to learn, and can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. If you are interested in learning pastel, there are a number of online courses that can help you get started.