An Introduction to Pastels and Pastel PencilsCourse Cancelled
Tutor: Kevin ScullyCourse Code: 1125-05
Summary
Pastel is a versatile medium that can be used to create detailed drawings, as well as lively and spontaneous paintings. A variety of subjects will be covered and may include still life, landscapes, seascapes, and portraits. Colour harmony and composition will feature strongly in our approach to using this exciting medium.
Description
You will be shown several established techniques including blending, layering, scumbling, glazing, and hatching. There are no hard and fast rules covering the use of soft pastels and pastel pencils but there are some techniques that work better than others. We will also discuss the different materials available and how they can be used to best effect. You will also be shown the best ways in which pastel paintings can be protected and framed. There will be several paintings on display in a wide range of styles and techniques to inspire you. There will also be demonstrations throughout the weekend, and you can be assured of plenty of individual attention.
We will be working from photographs, and all reference material will be provided but please feel free to bring along any images that you would like to work from.
At the end of the course, you will be equipped with the skills and techniques needed to produce some exciting work, and the confidence to use what you have learned when producing further paintings of your own.
Please bring with you
Soft Pastels
A selection of as many soft pastels as you can muster. Try to include some neutral colours as well. Pastels sold in sets tend to contain too many bright primary colours. These brands are particularly good:
Unison
Sennelier
Schmincke
Jackson’s
Art Spectrum
Inscribe (economy)
Pastel Pencils
A selection of as many colours that you have. These brands are particularly good:
Stabilo Carbothello
Derwent
Faber Castell
Pastel Paper
A selection of pastel papers in a range of colours, excluding white. There are many brands available, but I favour the Canson Mi-Teintes range. There are other brands available sold in pads, but make sure that they don’t contain too many light colours. Mid-tone, neutral colours are a much better basis for creating a painting or drawing. We will be working at roughly A4/A3 sizes.
Other Materials
Paper stump or torchon
Putty rubber
Sandpaper block
Craft knife or scalpel
Stiff brush for removing pastel – a stencil brush, or an old hog hair oil painting brush is ideal
Small spray can of fixative
Masking tape
Paper towel or tissues
Baby wipes
Some old clothes or an apron
Level
This course is suitable for beginners and those with some experience.
Course Location
Missenden Abbey
Great Missenden, Buckinghamshire HP16 0BD
Tutor
Kevin Scully
Kevin Scully is a professional artist, writer, illustrator, and tutor. He trained at Wimbledon School of Art and is an experienced teacher in drawing and painting in all mediums. He has excellent interpersonal skills and is an inspirational and patient teacher. Kevin is enthusiastic and creative, using demonstrations and one-to-one tuition to help students gain confidence and develop as individuals. He teaches drawing and painting in watercolours, oils, pastels, and acrylics. He has National Diplomas in Art & Design, Calligraphy, RHS Garden Design, and a 'City & Guilds Teaching Certificate'.
Examples of his work can be found at www.kevinscully.co.uk
Saturday to Sunday
Enrol on this Course
Timetable
Saturday | |
9.45am | Students arrive |
10am-1pm | Teaching session |
1-2pm | Lunch for all |
2-5pm | Teaching session |
6.45 for 7pm | Dinner for residents |
Sunday | |
7.30-9.30am | Breakfast for residents |
9.30am-1pm | Teaching session |
1-2pm | Lunch for all |
2-5pm | Last teaching session |


