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Drawing techniques with pencils

Drawing with pencils is one of the most accessible and popular forms of art. It is a versatile medium that allows artists to create a wide range of textures, tones, and effects. Whether you are a beginner or a professional artist, there are many drawing techniques that you can use to improve your skills and create stunning works of art.

In this article, we will explore some of the most popular techniques for drawing with pencils, including the use of different pencils, shading techniques, and more.

  1. Choosing the Right Pencil

The first step to creating a great pencil drawing is choosing the right pencils. There are many different types of pencils available, each with its own hardness or softness, and this can make a big difference in the look of your drawing.

Here are the most common types of pencils used for drawing:

  • H pencils: These pencils are hard and are used for creating light lines and details. They range from H9 (the hardest) to H1 (the softest).
  • B pencils: These pencils are soft and are used for creating dark lines and shading. They range from B9 (the softest) to B1 (the hardest).
  • HB pencils: These pencils are in the middle of the hardness scale and are a good all-around pencil for drawing.

When choosing your pencils, it is a good idea to have a range of hardnesses available so you can create a variety of tones and textures in your drawing.

  1. Shading Techniques

Shading is one of the most important techniques in pencil drawing. It can add depth, dimension, and texture to your work, and it can help create a realistic and three-dimensional effect.

Here are some shading techniques to try:

  • Hatching: This technique involves creating parallel lines that are close together to create a smooth, even shade.
  • Cross-hatching: This technique involves creating overlapping lines that create a darker shade.
  • Stippling: This technique involves creating small dots to create a textured effect.
  • Smudging: This technique involves using your finger or a blending tool to smooth out the pencil marks and create a softer, more blended effect.
  1. Texture Techniques

Creating texture is another important technique in pencil drawing. Texture can add interest and detail to your work and can make it look more realistic.

Here are some texture techniques to try:

  • Scratching: This technique involves using a sharp object (like a knife or a razor blade) to scratch the surface of the paper and create a textured effect.
  • Cross-contour lines: This technique involves creating lines that follow the contours of the object you are drawing to create a textured effect.
  • Stippling: As mentioned above, stippling can also be used to create texture.
  1. Other Techniques

There are many other techniques you can use to create different effects in your pencil drawings. Here are a few more to try:

  • Blending: This technique involves using a blending tool (like a blending stump or a tissue) to smooth out the pencil marks and create a more uniform shade.
  • Erasing: Erasing can be used to create highlights and to remove mistakes.
  • Layering: Layering involves building up layers of pencil marks to create a more complex and textured effect.
  1. Resources for Learning More

There are many resources available to help you learn more about drawing with pencils. Here are a few to check out:

  • Drawing tutorials on YouTube: There are many great drawing tutorials available on YouTube, covering a wide range of techniques and styles.
  • Drawing books: There are many great books available on drawing with pencils, including “Drawing for the Absolute Beginner” by Mark Willenbrink and Mary Willenbrink and “The Complete Guide to Drawing” by Giovanni Civardi.
  • Online courses: There are also many online courses available that can help you improve
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Water Color Tips

Watercolor is a wonderful medium that can create dreamy, fantastical landscapes, but it can be a challenge to master. To get the most out of your watercolor paintings, it’s important to use high-quality materials. I recommend upgrading from a beginner-level paint like Pelikan to a professional-grade one like Schmincke. Schmincke paints have a higher pigment concentration, which means they produce brighter, more vibrant colors that blend well together.

In addition to using high-quality paint, selecting the right paper is also crucial. Watercolor paper is specially designed to absorb water and hold the paint in place, allowing you to create beautiful washes and fine details. I recommend using paper with a weight of at least 140 lb (300 gsm) and a rough or cold-pressed texture, like Arches Watercolor Paper.

To get the most out of your watercolor paints, there are a few techniques you can use. One is to use a wet-on-wet technique, where you wet the paper with clean water before adding paint. This creates a beautiful, soft look that’s perfect for creating dreamy, atmospheric scenes. Another technique is to use a dry-brush technique, where you use a dry brush to apply paint to a dry surface. This produces a more textured look, which can be great for creating interesting details and contrast.

If you’re new to working with watery materials, trying out ink on cheaper paper or cardboards can be a great way to experiment with a whole new world of painting. You can also experiment with different types of watercolor brushes, like round brushes for detailed work and flat brushes for larger washes.

Here are the links to the brands mentioned:

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Club Culture in Berlin

Berlin is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and the city is home to some of the most famous clubs in the world. Here are a few clubs that you might want to check out, along with their website links:

  1. Berghain/Panorama Bar (https://berghain.berlin/)

Berghain is perhaps the most famous club in Berlin, known for its techno music and strict door policy. The club is housed in a former power plant and has a raw, industrial atmosphere. Panorama Bar is located on the top floor and offers a more relaxed atmosphere with a view of the city skyline.

  1. Watergate (https://www.water-gate.de/)

Watergate is located on the banks of the Spree River and is known for its house and techno music. The club has two dance floors and a rooftop terrace with a panoramic view of the city.

  1. Tresor (https://tresorberlin.com/)

Tresor is another famous techno club in Berlin, located in a former bank vault. The club has a gritty, underground feel and is known for its intense sound system.

  1. Sisyphos (https://sisyphos-berlin.net/)

Sisyphos is a sprawling club complex located in an abandoned factory. The club has multiple dance floors, outdoor areas, and even a swimming pool. It’s known for its eclectic music and laid-back, hippie atmosphere.

  1. KitKatClub (https://www.kitkatclub.org/)

KitKatClub is a fetish and techno club that’s known for its wild parties and anything-goes atmosphere. The club has multiple dance floors, a pool, and various play areas for guests who are so inclined.

  1. ://about blank (https://aboutblank.rocks/)

Located in a former factory in Friedrichshain, ://about blank is known for its house and techno music, as well as its outdoor courtyard and garden area.

  1. Club der Visionaere (https://clubdervisionaere.com/)

Club der Visionaere is a small, laid-back club located on the banks of the canal in Kreuzberg. The club is known for its minimal techno music and intimate atmosphere.

  1. Golden Gate (https://www.goldengate-berlin.de/)

Golden Gate is a small, dark club located in Mitte. It’s known for its eclectic music, including techno, house, and experimental beats.

  1. Salon zur Wilden Renate (https://renate.cc/)

Salon zur Wilden Renate is a whimsical club located in an old apartment building in Friedrichshain. The club is known for its playful, colorful decor and diverse music lineup.

  1. Kater Blau (https://www.katerblau.de/)

Kater Blau is located on the banks of the Spree River and is known for its house and techno music, as well as its outdoor garden area and riverside beach.

  1. Griessmuehle (https://www.griessmuehle.de/)

Griessmuehle is located in an old industrial complex in Neukölln and is known for its techno music and underground vibe.

  1. Wilde Renate (https://www.renate.cc/)

Wilde Renate is a multi-room club located in an old apartment building in Friedrichshain. It’s known for its quirky, colorful decor and eclectic music lineup.

These clubs represent just a small sample of the many exciting nightlife options available in Berlin. From underground techno parties to stylish cocktail bars, this city truly has something for everyone.

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Art Supplies in Berlin

Oil paints are a popular medium for artists due to their vibrant colors, rich textures, and versatility. They are made by mixing pigments with linseed oil or another drying oil, and are slow-drying, allowing artists to blend and manipulate the paint for longer periods of time.

If you are looking to purchase oil paints in Berlin, there are several art supply stores that carry a wide variety of brands and colors. One option is boesner (https://www.boesner.com/), which has multiple locations throughout the city and offers a large selection of oil paints from popular brands like Winsor & Newton, Old Holland, and Schmincke.

Another option is the art supply store Gerstaecker (https://www.gerstaecker.de/), which also has multiple locations in Berlin and carries a range of oil paints from brands like Lukas, Rembrandt, and Sennelier.

Cym (https://www.cym.de/) is another art supply store in Berlin that offers a range of oil paints from brands like Blockx, Mussini, and Talens. They also offer a variety of other art supplies, such as canvases, brushes, and papers.

For those who prefer to shop online, there are several art supply stores that offer delivery to Berlin. One such store is Jackson’s Art Supplies (https://www.jacksonsart.com/), which is based in the UK but ships worldwide and carries a wide variety of oil paints from brands like Gamblin, Michael Harding, and Williamsburg.

Another option is Kremer Pigmente (https://shop.kremerpigments.com/en/), which is based in Germany and offers a large selection of high-quality oil paints made with natural pigments. They also offer a range of other art supplies, such as brushes, mediums, and varnishes.

Overall, there are many options for purchasing oil paints in Berlin, both in-store and online. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, these stores offer a range of colors and brands to suit your needs.

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Berlin Lakes

Berlin, the capital city of Germany, is well known for its vibrant culture, history, and arts scene. However, it’s also home to some stunning lakes, which offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Here’s a list of some of the best lakes in Berlin:

  1. Wannsee – Located in the southwestern part of Berlin, Wannsee is one of the largest and most popular lakes in the city. It’s a great spot for swimming, boating, and picnicking. You can also visit the nearby Strandbad Wannsee, a historic outdoor swimming pool that has been around since the early 20th century.
  2. Schlachtensee – This picturesque lake is located in the southwestern part of Berlin and is known for its crystal-clear water and sandy beaches. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing in the summer months.
  3. Müggelsee – Müggelsee is the largest lake in Berlin and is located in the southeastern part of the city. It’s a great spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. You can also visit the nearby Müggelturm, a tower that offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forest.
  4. Plötzensee – Located in the northern part of Berlin, Plötzensee is a small but charming lake that’s popular with locals. It’s a great spot for swimming and sunbathing in the summer months.
  5. Tegeler See – Tegeler See is a large lake located in the northern part of Berlin. It’s a popular spot for water sports such as sailing and windsurfing. You can also take a boat tour of the lake and explore the surrounding forests and parks.

These are just a few of the many lakes that Berlin has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or an active day out, there’s a lake in Berlin that’s perfect for you.

To learn more about these lakes and plan your visit, you can check out the following links:

  1. Wannsee: https://www.visitberlin.de/en/wannsee-lake-and-strandbad-wannsee
  2. Schlachtensee: https://www.berlin.de/en/attractions-and-sights/3560529-3104052-schlachtensee.en.html
  3. Müggelsee: https://www.visitberlin.de/en/mueggelsee-lake-and-mueggelturm-tower
  4. Plötzensee: https://www.visitberlin.de/en/ploetzensee-lake
  5. Tegeler See: https://www.visitberlin.de/en/tegeler-see-lake-and-park-ternler-wiese
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Berlin Few Galleries

Berlin is a city that is renowned for its vibrant and diverse art scene. From the world-renowned museums and galleries on Museum Island to the cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions in neighborhoods like Kreuzberg and Mitte, there is something for every art lover in Berlin. Here are just a few of the many galleries worth visiting:

  1. KW Institute for Contemporary Art – Located in the heart of Berlin’s Mitte neighborhood, KW Institute for Contemporary Art is one of the city’s most prestigious art institutions. The gallery hosts a rotating program of exhibitions and events, showcasing some of the most innovative and thought-provoking contemporary art from around the world. Website: https://www.kw-berlin.de/en/
  2. C/O Berlin – Also located in Mitte, C/O Berlin is a popular photography gallery that features a wide range of exhibitions and events throughout the year. The gallery is known for its diverse program, which includes everything from documentary photography to experimental video installations. Website: https://www.co-berlin.org/en
  3. Urban Spree – This Kreuzberg-based gallery is a must-visit for anyone interested in street art and urban culture. The gallery hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year, showcasing the work of some of the city’s most exciting emerging artists. Website: https://www.urbanspree.com/
  4. Sammlung Boros – Housed in a former Nazi bunker in Mitte, Sammlung Boros is a private art collection that is open to the public by appointment only. The collection features a diverse range of contemporary art from around the world, including works by Damien Hirst, Olafur Eliasson, and Ai Weiwei. Website: https://www.sammlung-boros.de/en/home
  5. Berlinische Galerie – This museum in the Kreuzberg neighborhood is dedicated to modern art, photography, and architecture from Berlin and the surrounding region. The gallery’s collection includes works from the early 20th century to the present day, and it regularly hosts temporary exhibitions and events. Website: https://www.berlinischegalerie.de/en/
  6. Galerie Eigen + Art – With locations in both Mitte and Charlottenburg, Galerie Eigen + Art is one of the city’s most well-known contemporary art galleries. The gallery represents a diverse range of established and emerging artists, and its program includes everything from painting and sculpture to video and installation art. Website: https://www.eigen-art.com/
  7. König Galerie – This gallery has locations in both Kreuzberg and Mitte, and it showcases the work of some of the most exciting contemporary artists from around the world. The gallery’s program includes everything from painting and sculpture to video and performance art, and it regularly hosts exhibitions and events that push the boundaries of contemporary art. Website: https://koeniggalerie.com/
  8. Blain|Southern – Located in the Charlottenburg neighborhood, Blain|Southern is a contemporary art gallery that represents a diverse range of established and emerging artists from around the world. The gallery’s program includes everything from painting and sculpture to video and installation art, and it hosts a range of exhibitions and events throughout the year. Website: https://www.blainsouthern.com/

These are just a few of the many galleries that make Berlin such a dynamic and exciting city for art lovers. Whether you’re interested in contemporary art, street art, photography, or more traditional art forms, there is something for everyone in Berlin. To learn more about the city’s art scene and upcoming events, visit the official website of Berlin Art Week (https://www.berlinartweek.com/)

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Berlin Kietz

Berlin is one of the most vibrant cities in Europe and is home to a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and charm. From the historic center of Mitte to the bohemian vibe of Kreuzberg and the trendy Prenzlauer Berg, there is something for everyone in Berlin.

Mitte: Mitte is the central neighborhood of Berlin and the historical heart of the city. It is the location of many of Berlin’s famous landmarks, including the Brandenburg Gate, the Reichstag, and Museum Island. In addition to its historical significance, Mitte is also known for its upscale shopping, dining, and trendy nightlife. It is a popular tourist destination and a hub of activity in the city.

Kreuzberg: Kreuzberg is a multicultural neighborhood known for its bohemian vibe and alternative scene. It is home to many artists, musicians, and young people, and is known for its street art, independent shops, and lively nightlife. The neighborhood has a diverse population and is a great place to experience the cultural richness of Berlin.

Prenzlauer Berg: Prenzlauer Berg is a trendy neighborhood popular with young families and artists. It is known for its charming cobblestone streets, trendy boutiques, and bustling cafes. Prenzlauer Berg is also home to Mauerpark, a popular park that hosts a famous flea market on weekends. The neighborhood is a great place to experience the creative side of Berlin.

Neukölln: Neukölln is a diverse neighborhood with a large immigrant population. It is known for its vibrant street life, multicultural food scene, and affordable rents. Neukölln is also home to the popular Tempelhofer Feld park, a former airport turned public park. The neighborhood is a great place to experience the diversity of Berlin and is popular with young people looking for a more affordable place to live.

Charlottenburg: Charlottenburg is an upscale neighborhood known for its elegant architecture, high-end shopping, and fine dining. It is home to many historical landmarks, including Charlottenburg Palace and the Berlin Zoo. The neighborhood is a great place to experience the luxury side of Berlin.

Friedrichshain: Friedrichshain is a lively neighborhood known for its hipster scene and vibrant nightlife. It is home to many bars, clubs, and music venues and is a popular destination for young people. Friedrichshain is also home to the East Side Gallery, a famous stretch of the Berlin Wall covered in murals and street art.

Schöneberg: Schöneberg is a residential neighborhood known for its peaceful streets and green spaces. It is a popular destination for families and retirees and is known for its many parks and gardens. Schöneberg is also home to the famous Nollendorfplatz, a square known for its LGBTQ+ community and vibrant nightlife.

Wedding: Wedding is a diverse neighborhood located in the north of Berlin. It is known for its affordable rents and multicultural population. The neighborhood is home to many immigrant communities and is a great place to experience the cultural richness of Berlin. Wedding is also home to the famous Plötzensee Prison, a former Nazi prison that now serves as a memorial to those who suffered there.

Spandau: Spandau is a peaceful neighborhood located in the west of Berlin. It is known for its historical landmarks, including the Spandau Citadel, and its charming old town. Spandau is a popular destination for families and retirees and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Treptow-Köpenick (continued): In addition to its outdoor attractions, Treptow-Köpenick is also home to the famous Köpenick Palace, a baroque-style palace that now serves as a museum. The neighborhood is a great place to escape the city and enjoy some natural beauty.

Lichtenberg: Lichtenberg is a diverse neighborhood located in the east of Berlin. It is known for its many cultural institutions, including the Stasi Museum and the Berlin-Hohenschönhausen Memorial. Lichtenberg is also home to many parks and green spaces and is a great place to experience the cultural richness of Berlin.

Marzahn-Hellersdorf: Marzahn-Hellersdorf is a large neighborhood located in the east of Berlin. It is known for its many high-rise apartment buildings and its affordable rents. The neighborhood is home to many green spaces, including the famous Gardens of the World, a large park that showcases the world’s many different gardening styles.

Reinickendorf: Reinickendorf is a quiet residential neighborhood located in the northwest of Berlin. It is known for its many parks and green spaces, as well as its historical landmarks, including the Tegel Castle. Reinickendorf is a popular destination for families and retirees looking for a peaceful place to live.

Steglitz-Zehlendorf: Steglitz-Zehlendorf is a wealthy neighborhood located in the southwest of Berlin. It is known for its many upscale shops and restaurants, as well as its historical landmarks, including the Berlin Botanical Garden and the Dahlem Museum. The neighborhood is a great place to experience the luxury side of Berlin.

Tempelhof-Schöneberg: Tempelhof-Schöneberg is a diverse neighborhood located in the south of Berlin. It is known for its many cultural institutions, including the Schöneberg Town Hall and the Tempelhof Airport, which now serves as a public park. The neighborhood is also home to many green spaces, including the popular Viktoriapark.

Pankow: Pankow is a large neighborhood located in the north of Berlin. It is known for its residential areas, including many apartment buildings and single-family homes. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, including the popular Bürgerpark Pankow. Pankow is a great place to live if you’re looking for a quieter, more suburban feel while still being within easy reach of the city center.

Pankow is also home to several notable attractions, including the stunning Schönhausen Palace, which served as a summer residence for the East German government. The palace and its gardens are now open to the public as a museum.

The neighborhood also has a rich history as the site of several key events in German and European history. Pankow was the site of the Pankow Conference in 1949, which led to the formation of the German Democratic Republic. The neighborhood was also the site of the Pankow protests in 1989, which helped to bring about the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Overall, Pankow is a peaceful and historic neighborhood that offers a mix of suburban and urban living. It’s a great place to live if you’re looking for a quieter pace of life while still being within easy reach of Berlin’s many attractions.

Overall, Berlin’s many neighborhoods offer a diverse range of experiences and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a trendy and bohemian vibe, a peaceful residential neighborhood, or a luxurious shopping and dining experience, there’s a neighborhood in Berlin that’s right for you.

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Let Yourself to be free. fall in love with charcoal

Charcoal drawing is a unique medium that allows you to let go of your fear of white paper, perfectionism, and the fear of starting or finishing a piece. It might make your hands dirty, but that is exactly what you need to let go of control and fear. Everywhere will be messy, and that is part of the process. You can use every kind of charcoal, whether it is a stick, inside the lead of a mechanical pencil, or in powder form, to create dramatic and powerful pieces. You can even mix it with black ink or watercolor to create a dreamy fantasy land. 

There are many good quality charcoal brands available, such as Nitram, General’s, Derwent, and Conte. Each brand offers a range of charcoal types, including vine charcoal, compressed charcoal, and charcoal pencils. Vine charcoal is soft, fragile, and great for laying out initial drawings. Compressed charcoal, on the other hand, is denser and provides a more intense black tone. Charcoal pencils are a combination of vine charcoal and compressed charcoal and are great for detail work. 

When it comes to techniques, one way to start is to hold a piece of charcoal in your hand and put a big enough piece of paper in front of you, one that makes you a little scared. Start by scratching the paper with the largest part of the charcoal. You’ll notice that it produces a dark shade, which is perfect for expressing any negative energy. Then try rubbing the charcoal from here to there with your fingers until your fingers and the whole paper turn black. If you are angry, use the charcoal again and again until you feel better. 

At some point, you might discover some patterns inside the blackness. You can make them more permanent with another piece of charcoal or a lighter eraser. Don’t be afraid to trust your inner being and let your ideas flow naturally. With each stroke, your self-expression will become more apparent. 

If you catch yourself judging your work or yourself, gently rub your other hand and tell yourself to relax and let go. Then, apply more pressure to the charcoal piece over the area where you were judging yourself. Remember, the more you listen to yourself and trust your instincts, the more natural the process will become. Trust the journey, and you’ll find yourself creating self-portraits and expressive pieces without even realizing it. 

In conclusion, charcoal drawing is a powerful medium that allows you to express yourself freely without fear or limitations. With different types of charcoal and techniques, you can create dramatic and powerful pieces that speak to your innermost thoughts and emotions 

Charcoal is a versatile medium that can produce a wide range of effects, depending on the technique used. One of the simplest ways to use charcoal is to simply pick up a stick and make broad, gestural marks on the paper. These marks can be used to establish the overall composition and to create a sense of movement and energy in the drawing. By varying the pressure and angle of the charcoal stick, you can create a range of values, from light to dark, and use this to add depth and dimension to the drawing. 

Another technique that can be used with charcoal is blending. This involves using a blending tool, such as a stump or tortillon, to smudge and soften the charcoal marks. Blending can be used to create a smooth, subtle shading effect or to blend colors together for a more painterly effect. Charcoal can also be combined with other mediums, such as pastel or watercolor, to create unique effects. 

Another popular technique with charcoal is to use a kneaded eraser or a chamois cloth to create highlights and remove areas of charcoal. This can be used to create sharp, crisp edges or to add texture to the drawing. By combining this technique with other techniques, such as blending or layering, you can create a wide range of effects and styles in your charcoal drawings.

It’s also worth noting that there are different types of charcoal available, each with its own unique properties. Vine charcoal, for example, is soft and easy to blend, making it ideal for creating broad, expressive marks. Willow charcoal is slightly harder and produces a darker mark, making it better for creating detailed lines and fine details. Compressed charcoal is even harder and produces a very dark, almost black mark, making it ideal for creating deep shadows and contrast in a drawing. 

Overall, charcoal is a medium that offers a lot of creative possibilities. Whether you’re looking to create bold, expressive marks or delicate, detailed drawings, charcoal can be a versatile and rewarding medium to work with. So why not give it a try and see where your creativity takes you

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Pastels, Lets touch colors

painting with pastels and pastel sticks matigan.com

Indulge in a moment of nostalgia, recalling the tactile thrill of chalk scratching across a blackboard or the whimsical delight of sketching with chalk on a sunlit sidewalk. Have you ever experienced that exhilarating rush of transgression while wielding pastels—whether the dusty dry sticks or the rich and creamy oil pastels—where the world of art invites you to blur boundaries and embrace uncharted realms?

painting with pastels and pastel sticks matigan.com

Let’s venture into the captivating realm of pastels, a medium that unveils a breathtaking spectrum of colors and textures, a canvas where your imagination can take flight. Pastels, with their alluring array of shades, stand as a steadfast companion against the daunting expanse of an untouched canvas. The oil-based pastels, revered for their water-resistant nature, weave seamlessly with ink, each stroke echoing a harmonious duet. Contrastingly, the powdery dry pastels beckon you to shed inhibition and delve into a world of tactile play, allowing the medium’s texture to guide your creative expression.

painting with pastels and pastel sticks matigan.com

Upon completing your pastel masterpiece, the notion of preserving its brilliance becomes paramount. Enter the fixative—an alchemical solution to keep the colors vibrant and unblemished. An unexpected yet cost-effective fixative option lies in the realm of shoe varnish, offering a whimsical twist to the preservation process. But the journey of pastels doesn’t cease at ink; their chemistry with water births enchanting results. As water interacts with the textured pastels, a captivating dance ensues, imbuing your artwork with an emotive depth that defies convention. Now, let’s acquaint ourselves with a selection of distinguished pastel brands, each a gateway to artistic enchantment.

painting with pastels and pastel sticks matigan.com

Beyond the realm of ink, pastels exhibit a harmonious companionship with colored pencils, oil paints, and acrylics. The black pastels, a symphony of hardness levels, from the gentlest whispers to the boldest strokes, wield the power to transform your canvas. Cast aside the fear of messiness, for pastels encourage the liberation from the relentless pursuit of perfection, fostering an embrace of creative authenticity.

painting with pastels

Furthermore, it’s intriguing to note that pastels coalesce seamlessly with the world of watercolors, creating a symphony of hues that inspire awe.

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For me, the allure of pastels resides in their ability to conjure an artistic experience unparalleled in the realm of creative expression. Through pastels, you become the maestro of texture and depth, your work infused with a vibrancy that demands attention. Furthermore, the tactile communion with pastels imparts a distinct gratification, a sensory dance that sets them apart from other mediums.

painting with pastels and pastel sticks matigan.com

In closing, pastels stand as an invitation, a doorway into a realm where creativity knows no bounds. Irrespective of your artistic journey’s stage, pastels extend their embrace, offering a canvas where inspiration blossoms and joy finds its voice. Explore their versatility, celebrate their texture, and let the symphony of pastels be your artistic muse.

painting with pastels and pastel sticks matigan.com

Starting to paint with pastels can be a rewarding and enjoyable artistic endeavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

1. Gather Your Supplies:
First, make sure you have the necessary supplies. You’ll need a set of pastels (either chalk pastels or oil pastels), pastel paper or a textured surface suitable for pastels, fixative (to prevent smudging), and any additional tools you might want to use (blending tools, cotton swabs, etc.).

2. Choose Your Pastels:
If you’re new to pastels, consider starting with a basic set of colors to get comfortable with the medium. As you gain experience, you can gradually expand your color palette.

3. Set Up Your Workspace:
Find a well-lit and well-ventilated area to work in. Pastels can create dust, so having good ventilation is important. Lay down a protective covering to catch any dust or pastel particles.

4. Prepare Your Surface:
Use pastel paper or a surface specifically designed for pastels. The texture of the surface helps the pastels adhere better. Some surfaces might require priming with a fixative or even a thin layer of acrylic paint before applying pastels.

5. Choose Your Subject:
Decide what you want to paint. You can work from a reference photo, a still life setup, or your imagination. It’s a good idea to start with something simple and gradually progress to more complex subjects as you become more comfortable with the medium.

6. Sketch Your Composition:
Lightly sketch the basic outlines of your subject on the paper. You can use a pencil, but be gentle to avoid leaving visible marks that might mix with the pastels.

7. Layering Colors:
Start layering your pastels on the paper. Begin with light colors and gradually build up to darker ones. Blend the colors by layering them and using your fingers, blending tools, or even a cotton swab. Experiment with layering and blending to achieve different effects.

8. Create Depth and Texture:
Use different colors and strokes to create depth and texture in your artwork. Experiment with various techniques, such as hatching, cross-hatching, stippling, and smudging, to achieve different effects.

9. Fixative Application:
Once your artwork is complete, apply a fixative to protect it from smudging. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for applying the fixative and allow it to dry completely before handling the artwork.

10. Explore and Experiment:
Don’t be afraid to experiment and explore different techniques. Pastels offer a wide range of possibilities, from delicate blends to bold strokes. With practice, you’ll develop your own style and discover what works best for you.

Remember, painting with pastels is about enjoying the process and embracing the unique qualities of the medium. As you practice and gain experience, you’ll find your confidence growing, and your artistic skills will evolve.

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Matigan Art and Culture NFT Exhibition Open Call

Matigan Art and Culture NFT Exhibition Open Call

Matigan Art and Culture announces its NFT call for artists, creators, musicians, poets, writers, and researchers for a juried online NFT art exhibition! Our theme for this exhibition is What Your Heart sings It’s a free theme and you can use this as a way to express or dream freely, so from wherever you are on this planet, and in whatever medium you are working on, being writing, drawing, painting, sculpture to digital art, photography, video art, music, sound installation, dance, and performance art, you are welcome to send us your artworks, it can be a cry of hopelessness or a sign of love and hope. We make the selected ones into NFT and we present them on our NFT platform Rarible and our other social platforms and website.

This online showcase provides an opportunity to challenge physical art gallery norms as we introduce our new online exhibitions. With an online show, we are able to open up this Artist Call around the world, broaden our art network to include artists across the planet, and extend our experience at Matigan Art and Culture

The jury is considered the pieces in the process of arriving so it’s an ongoing exhibition.

It’s free to participate and the chosen ones will be introduced via our website and social media platforms.

Entry Process:

All entries will be submitted via Email matigan.art@gmail.com, after the jury decides on pieces the pieces will be on Matigan Account as an NFT for sale. Please read our policy for more details and how to open a Crypto wallet the easiest way.

Questions may be directed to Visual Arts Exhibition Manager matigan.art@gmail.com

Deadline: 22/09/2022

ELIGIBILITY:
-Open to any age, working in all traditional and non-traditional 2D and 3D media

-All artwork must be original in concept, design, and execution.

All forms of art in any medium can be sent in digital form
[including text, painting, drawing, illustration, collage, sound recording, multimedia art, photography, vocal poetry, installation, polyphony, dance, performance, sculpture, sound design, textile art]

-Image files should be saved in universal .jpeg format for entry and should be between 1400 pixels and 4000 pixels longest dimension at 300PPI (pixels per inch). Video files should be saved in .mov or .mp4.
-sound/music compositions (preferably on Sound cloud, WAV files preferred, or mp3 320 if longer than 15 min)


-All works will be presented with a picture that must be followed by a description of the work.
-We are accepting up to 7 submissions per artist.
-There are no special qualifications required for entry.

– Matigan Art And Culture is dedicated to exhibiting works of fine art that promote the artist’s artistic ability, vision, and creativity within the traditional and no traditional art forms of 2D and 3D works. In this respect, all artwork should be original and created from conception to completion by the artist’s own hand. No artwork copied from other artists’ work or published photos, or created in an instructional setting is eligible.