Oil Pastel

Here is an entire book devoted to oil pastel. This versatile medium is economical, fast, easy to transport, and it is less toxic than many other media, including oil paint, dry pastel, and encaustic. After presenting a brief history of oil pastel, the author describes the handling and characteristics of this evocative medium and compares the various brands of oil pastel available in today's market. There is in-depth information on colour theory, followed by a consideration of the practical applications of colour theory to the medium of oil pastel. Especially valuable is the advice on handling modern pigments that don't fit the colour wheel, such as metallics, iridescents and fluorescents. The qualities of a variety of appropriate surfaces are also surveyed even such unusual ones as sandpaper, Mylar and fabrics. The main section of the book deals with basic and innovative oil pastel techniques and includes demonstrations of turpentine washes, layering, scraping scumbling, smudging, blending, glazing, and correcting.
The enormous potential of oil pastel is vividly illustrated by guest artists working in diverse styles and subject matter, including still lifes, landscapes, portraits, abstracts and fantasy. Mixed media hot works (painting with molten oil pastels), and 3D constructions are explored and illustrated under the topic of new directions for the medium and a special section addresses such important concerns as toxicity, permanence and storage. Beginners and more advanced artists alike will find real pleasure in this book. "Oil Pastels" aims to inspire and excite all those who want to expand their artistic skills and range.