Beginning an beginner pastel classes is like opening a brand-new box of pastels bursting with vivid colors and limitless possibilities. Relax if pastels seem difficult or frightening. Since most classes are geared for novices, you won't be thrown too far too quickly. Imagine yourself learning at home, comfortable in your pajamas, under the direction of a talented artist working methodically. Sounds exactly right.
You will first meet your instructor online—usually someone driven and supportive who helps you to feel part of a welcoming creative group. You will immediately dig right into the fundamentals. You will see and work with several kinds of pastels, including soft, oil, perhaps even pastel pencils. You will also discover which materials best accentuate your artwork.
Early classes concentrate on foundations. Pro tip: keep wipes nearby; how do you hold the pastel, how pressure influences your strokes, and why is mixing with your fingertips so fulfilling? Not here will color theory be dull. Mixing and layering colors will provide entertainment value. Created a muddy spot? Not a problem; that's how one learns.
Usually, the course builds up gradually. You will begin by working on basic forms and textures; consider soft fruit, fluffy clouds, or an old rusty key. You then will work on landscapes, portraits, or abstract works using instructor demos or live Q&A sessions.
On this road you will not be by yourself. Many online pastel lessons have active forums where you could ask questions, share your development, or laugh at mistakes in mixing. Surprisingly motivating is the help and honest criticism of other pupils.
Another bonus: lessons can be stopped and rewind anywhere. Should your dog knock over your tea during a mid-demo, there is no need for panic; simply hit rewind and resume where you left off. You might also get bonus goodies as reference photos, downloaded manuals, or special webinars.
By the conclusion, you'll have a vibrant collection of artwork, a strong sense of pastel technique mastery, and most likely some smudges on your preferred shirt. And also who knows? You might even find yourself delighted for your next creative journey and smiling at that new range of pastels.