"Sketch of Marilee"

Here's a 7 x 5" Pastelbord sketch of the model Marilee that I did using Caran d'Ache pastel pencils.  I do love this medium  - the only problem for me with soft pastels is the framing.  And I really really love to work with the pencil version!  We didn't have as much time as I would have liked, but that's always my complaint and I think "not having enough time" pushes us to work faster, which is good practice.  Anyway, it was fun drawing her and I appreciate your stopping by my blog!
 

Julie - original pastel portrait drawing

Every now and then I get the urge to get out my pastel pencils and do some drawing.  I love them, especially my Caran d'Ache pencils, used in this case on the smooth side of Mi-Teintes.  Framing something so delicate is a problem for me, since I always do it myself.  I usually make a gutter for the loose pastel to fall into with acid-free foam core or use spacers that attach to the glass.  Either method stresses me no end, which is probably why I don't do soft pastel any more than I do, because I really really love to work in this incredible medium. And then the requirement in so many shows that plexiglass must be used.  I've heard that the anti-static spray works great for awhile, but must be reapplied.  How does one do that without unframing the artwork?  Bound to be solutions but I haven't come across any yet.😟 Thanks for stopping by and I would love to know if you have any answers!

 

Ready for Night - original pastel pencil portrait drawing

 

Here's a pastel pencil drawing that I did some time ago, using a very limited palette of Caran d'Ache pencils.  At that time, I only had a few of this brand that I was trying out and since they - unlike most pastels, even in pencil form - didn't make me sneeze, get in my eyes and just generally make me feel itchy, I've acquired a nice collection of Caran d'Ache.  Most likely, how I use pastels is the problem, but since I'm mainly an oil pastelist, problem solved!  This was a pretty quick drawing - don't remember how long - but I was mainly interested in the satiny strap over her shoulder.  It's on toned paper, 12 x 9".  Thanks for visiting!

A Nude Drawing - original pastel pencil drawing

Pastel pencils are so versatile and such fun to work with.  I tried to keep this drawing free of too many details.  It's on 12 x 9" Colourfix paper.  Thanks for looking!

Sketch of Heather - pastel pencil portrait drawing

One of my favorite poses - the model is looking over her shoulder, although it's a tough pose to hold.  Heather has the most beautiful coloring - always a pleasure to draw her.  I used my Caran d'Ache pastel pencils on 12 x 9" tinted pastel paper.  Thanks so much for stopping by!

Sketch of the Model Cinda - original portrait sketch

I had plans to put in a vase of flowers in back of Cinda, but, alas, didn't have enough time.  Always the story.  Did this with Caran d'Ache pastel pencils.  They are heavenly!  Not too powdery and really good for drawing.  It's on Art Spectrum smooth, which is delightful to work with.  I love Art Spectrum's lightly toothed paper for oil pastels because it really grabs the oil pastels, but this smoother one is perfect for pastel pencils and doesn't grind down the points.  Thanks for stopping by!

On My Easel - Sketch for Reading - original pastel pencil portrait in progress

Much to do on this one, but just thought I should post something, even though nothing much is finished.  On Colourfix board, which is great to work on.  Have a great weekend!

On My Easel - original pastel pencil figurative in progress

Here it is in the wee hours and I'm just now getting to posting.  This drawing is being done from a black and white sketch from some time ago.  At this point, I don't know if it will be "finished" - well, probably not at this point.  Don't know if other artists leave things for awhile the way I do.  This is on Colourfix board, but my usual problem is cropping up - pastel dust.  Thought it wouldn't be bad with the pencils and while it's not as bad as with the sticks, it's still a problem.  Maybe I'll start working with them outside.  Anyway, thanks for stopping by!  PS.  That's a book on her lap (will definitely make that more finished)!

Woman Reading - original pastel pencil figurative drawing

This pastel pencil drawing is actually on bluish Art Spectrum Colourfix paper, but for some reason, it looks kind of beige here.  Otherwise, the colors are correct.  I love having a model for even a short time, so didn't work on the chair at all - just concentrated on the model, because all models do tire after awhile.  And sure enough, she finally had enough and that was that.  It was great while it lasted, though.  Years ago, I used some CarbOthello pastel pencils in art class and I loved them, but haven't used this medium since.  Got to thinking about them and just hauled off and treated myself to a whole set of CarbOthellos.   They are delicious, plus I think changing one's medium from time to time is good for the soul!  Thanks so much for stopping by!