Demo: Step by Step Clouds in pastel on toned paper
Rives BFK Paper tape to work surface
Using Rives BFK paper, tape the paper to a board. Acid free artists tape is best. Once the paper is secured to the work surface, it is ready to be toned.
A medium soft pastel is best for toning, very soft pastels will flake while working with this technique. Rub the pastel stick on the long side across the paper or use sandpaper to apply pastel dust. Wear white gloves to rub the pastel into the paper surface.
Take a medium to soft white pastel to block in the shape of the clouds and some detail for mountain or land area.
A soft brush can be use to establish motion in the clouds and begin to soften the effect.
Tone paper with medium soft pastel
Block in shape of clouds with white soft pastel
The landscape or mountain range becomes the lesser important image in this work. The clouds are the main focus. Keep the mountains in the lower third of the painting.
Add shadows to the clouds, look at the strength of the colors and the variety of colors. Purples, blues, be mindful of using grays. Look carefully at those colors that are truly there. Push the intensity some.
Continue to look at the colors, add white on top of the shadows to bring out the highlights. The edges of clouds where the sun is to the back will appear golden, yellow, orange and even reds can be seen in high intense colors. Use only the brightest white in small areas.
Blending can be done with the pastels. To create some of the direction use a soft brush with a light touch. The blue of the sky may need to be added in some of the areas between the clouds. Be light handed using the brush for the airy effect.
Add mountains/landscape to lower third
Shadows in the clouds
Highlights on top of shadows
For pricing information contact the artist directly. e-mail: lindahp@lindaharrisonparsons.com Accepting Master Card, Visa, Discover, American Express, Check & Cash.
