Brushing Off Tradition: Embracing Pastels Today

This time, I’d like to chat about a medium that often gets overlooked in today’s art scene but has a rich history that’s worth exploring – pastels. If you’re an artist, you’re probably constantly seeking unique ways to express yourself, and pastels provide a vibrant and versatile palette that shouldn’t be underestimated.

You might be thinking – pastels? Isn’t that what my grandmother used to sketch flowers in her spare time? Well, for good reason,  pastels are making a comeback, and they’re not just for floral arrangements.

Painting with pure pigment

One of the things that draws me to pastels is their soft, velvety texture and the way they effortlessly blend on the canvas. You’re actually painting with pure pigment, and the results can be breathtaking. In the age of digital art and cutting-edge technology, there’s something incredibly satisfying about getting your hands dirty and working with real, tangible materials.

If you dive into the world of pastels, You cant  help but be inspired by the masters who paved the way for us. Think about it – Degas, the master of ballet scenes, created some of his most iconic works using pastels. Capturing the delicate movements of dancers with those vibrant hues is nothing short of mesmerising.

Take a look at power of the amazing blues – pure colour. Still as fresh and powerful as the day they were created.

Blue Dancers, 1897, pastel on paper, Pushkin Museum, Moscow

And let’s not forget about Mary Cassatt, who used pastels to bring her intimate scenes of motherhood to life. The subtle nuances and soft tones she achieved were unparalleled, showcasing the incredible range that pastels can offer.

Young Woman in a Black and Green Bonnet, Looking Down. By Mary Cassatt – Princeton University Art Museum, Public Domain

In the spirit of these past masters, I encourage modern artists to embrace the unique flexibility of pastels. Take a break from the conventions of acrylics and oils, and let the pastel palette inspire and encourage experimentation. The beauty of pastels lies in their ability to convey emotion and atmosphere with a delicate touch – something that can be lost in the bold strokes of more traditional mediums.

We live in a fast-paced, ever-evolving art world, but there’s no harm in taking a step back and rediscovering the allure of pastels. They’re not just a nod to the past; they’re a vibrant part of our artistic present.

The next time you find yourself standing in front of that blank canvas, consider reaching for those pastel sticks and letting your imagination run wild. You might just discover a whole new dimension to your art that you never knew existed. You may find that  blending the past with the present can create a masterpiece that transcends time. Happy creating!