Monday, November 2, 2009

Pastels in Drawing class

"Fall Arrangement"
15" x 10"

I worked on this piece for two classes. I like the pitcher. I'm still missing it on the gourds. Bob gave a great demo after he saw that we were struggling with them. He says to start by establishing the dark shadow so you can key values from the shadow. Do not create a hard edge; bring the shadow pastel up into the gourd. Establish the surrounding value. Work from the middle of the gourd outward, being especially gentle as you approach the shadow area. Carefully place the highlights.

Strangely, the pastel paper has vertical lines in it. I bought the paper at University Arts where we have class and didn't notice the lines until I started doing the pastel. I believe they had some oddball sheets mixed in with the Canson Mi Tientes paper. I will check carefully in the future.

4 comments:

Unknown said...

ooo... I think you did a grand job on the gourds Mary! It's challenging to consider color and shadow at the same time. That is weird about the paper....I don't think I've seen anything like it. Miss you and the class!

Mary Paquet said...

Hi, Sheila. Thanks for checking in and being so encouraging. Miss you, too.

FitFoodieMegha said...

Hey Mary! I am amazed to see your talent. You are a fantastic artist. I loved this painting!

Water Color Pencil: Bani Thani in Ancient Look...!

Mary Paquet said...

Thanks so much, Megha.