I work (Mostly) in Oil Pastels...and sometimes a touch of chalk pastel here and there.....although most of my work has other elements to it and is strictly speaking 'Mixed Media'. Often I lay the pastels over a prepared background of either oil, acrylic or watercolour to add depth and pull things together even though, sometimes, none of it remains visible in the finished piece. The Oil Pastel always prevails in spirit even if not always in practice. Much of what I do has evolved from exploring a range of techniques using the pastels...different papers, different textures and the use of thinners, or sgraffito techniques for example. I continually try to experiment.

I love the work of the Impressionists and colour in all its subtle variations. Whether this is evocative, atmospheric landscapes....or the vibrant colour and character of flowers. Finally, I love history and regardless of the subject I find my work always has a whiff of nostalgia about it. Its an aspect I want to develope further.

 

                                   

                           "Daisies in the Rain."   Sold as an original.  

I rediscovered oil pastels several years ago when I taught a GCSE Art class at a local High School. I arrived to find coursework portfolios full of muddy, wish-washy paintings executed with either clumsy or timid brushwork. Things didn't look promising and I needed a way to introduce more colour and spontaneity into their work. Oil pastels provided the answer. And then I thought.....if oil pastels work so well for the students, why not see what I can do with them myself? I had been casting round for a niche of my own and a material I felt suited my style... I've been using them and exploring the possibilites ever since. They can have all the vibrancy and depth of oil paint,  and yet can also be softened in white spirit or similar and applied in washes like watercolour. A further advantage is they are easily portable and practical 'in the field' and can be packed away with no mess and no waste ....they can be worked on....and scraped off with a sharp knife...without the need to rest or dry. They also lend themselves to use with other media...acrylic paint is an option I often use....hence the 'Mostly'.