http://www.painters-online.co.uk artistDecember 2019 31
PRACTICAL
t Blending
Whether or not to blend pastel is
debateable. Some artists prefer the
crisper, more spontaneous results
achieved by leaving the pastel
unblended, others believe that
blending adds another dimension by
creating difusion, mood and
atmosphere with subtle efects of
colour and tone. The determining factor
should be the success or otherwise of the
piece of work. In addition, any intrusive
lines and marks can easily be adjusted.
Pastel can be blended using a relatively
light touch. Random marks made by the
tip, edge or side of the pastel are easily
blended; even crosshatching or broader
marks applied with a heavier touch can be
blended. However, pastel applied with too
much pressure may become ingrained in
the surface and more diicult to blend.
Blending can be done using the inger tip,
a soft rag, tissue, brush, Pro Arte colour
applicator, paper stump or a combination
of several of these techniques.p Linear strokes
The variety of linear marks that can be made
by varying the pressure, using diferent
edges and changing direction is endless.
An ability to draw well and with a degree of
conidence is a major asset. Hesitant,
indecisive marks will be obvious and may
ruin a piece of work.
p Random marks and
stippling
These marks can be employed in areas
where a variation of texture and colour may
be needed to achieve a convincing
rendering of the subject, such as deep grass
or pebbly beaches. The use of colour change,
in conjunction with a variety of rapidly
applied random marks demands practice
before the technique can be mastered and
used convincingly.
p Flat strokes
The texture of the paper may afect the results when
applying lat, even strokes. Generally the pastel
should be applied with a conident, irm stroke.
Constant pressure will achieve even efects.
Changing the direction of the mark and varying
the pressure will produce a variety of efects and
textures.p Graduated colour
To produce a graduated passage
of colour, increase the pressure on
the pastel as the stroke is made;
to reverse the efect, decrease the
pressure. Clear skies can be painted
using this technique.u Overlaying
colour/texture
Many efects can be achieved by
overlaying colour and results will vary
depending on the colour and texture
of the paper. Apply the irst colour
with a light touch to ensure that
subsequent applications will adhere
and remain fresh and clean.w
t Hatching and
crosshatching
These are commonly used for building up
tonal values. Hatching is separate, parallel
strokes laid next to one another; the
results vary depending on the pressure
applied, the stroke width and the
closeness of the strokes. Additional texture
or darker tonal values can be achieved by
crosshatching, which involves a further set
of strokes laid over the top of the previously
applied hatching. These marks are applied
at an angle of approximately 90 degrees.
Vibrant colour mixes can be achieved by
interweaving two or more colours.