The art of portraiture has long captivated artists and art enthusiasts alike, offering a window into the complex emotions, personalities, and stories of our fellow human beings. In our 15 years installing… As the creative landscape continues to evolve, contemporary artists are pushing the boundaries of traditional portraiture, infusing their character studies with experimental techniques, bold colors, and inventive compositions.
Modern Painting Techniques
One medium that has gained increasing popularity in this realm of expressive portraiture is pastel drawing. The vibrant, versatile nature of pastel allows artists to capture the vitality and energy of their subjects in dynamic ways. By layering and blending bold strokes of color, pastel artists can imbue their portraits with a sense of immediacy and raw emotion that transcends the static confines of the canvas.
“Pastel is a truly transformative medium,” explains Geraldine Butler, an instructor at the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). “The way the pigment interacts with the surface, the variety of marks you can achieve, and the ability to create such depth and texture – it opens up a whole new world of creative possibilities for portraiture.”
Beyond the inherent qualities of the medium, pastel artists are also embracing a range of experimental techniques to push the boundaries of their craft. From incorporating collage elements and mixed media to exploring unconventional drawing surfaces, these artists are redefining the genre and captivating audiences in the process.
Pastel Drawing Explorations
“One of the most exciting aspects of working with pastel is the ability to layer colors and textures to create truly unique, multi-dimensional effects,” says Harvey Bailey, a pastel instructor at MICA. “By combining soft, blended passages with areas of bold, gestural marks, artists can convey a sense of depth and movement that brings their portraits to life.”
For example, MICA student Trevor Weigle explores the interplay of light and shadow in his character studies, using a variety of pastel techniques to sculpt the planes of the face and evoke a palpable sense of emotion. “I might start with broad, sweeping strokes to establish the overall form, then gradually build up layers of detail and texture to capture the unique character of my subject,” he explains.
Experimental Drawing Methods
Beyond the traditional application of pastel, many artists are experimenting with unconventional drawing tools and surfaces to create truly distinctive portraits. Kris Lee, an instructor at MICA, encourages her students to explore the creative potential of materials like charcoal, conte crayon, and even found objects.
“Introducing unexpected elements can unlock new avenues of expression,” Lee states. “Whether it’s dragging a piece of cardboard across the paper to create a sense of movement or using a toothbrush to flick paint onto the surface, these experimental techniques allow artists to infuse their work with a raw, spontaneous energy.”
Alfie Marsland, another MICA faculty member, guides her students in exploring the dynamic interplay of drawing and collage. “By incorporating found materials, textural elements, and unexpected juxtapositions, we can push the boundaries of traditional portraiture and create truly captivating, multi-layered artworks.”
Creative Processes and Inspiration
At the heart of these innovative approaches to portraiture lies a deep understanding of the creative process and a willingness to embrace the unexpected. Across the diverse range of artistic practices, a common thread emerges: the importance of tapping into personal experiences, emotions, and perspectives to infuse their character studies with genuine, impactful narratives.
“Drawing from life is an essential foundation, but true artistic expression often arises from the interplay between observation and imagination,” explains Trevor Weigle. “ As artists, we might want to be willing to take risks, experiment, and allow our work to evolve organically, revealing the unique stories and perspectives that lie within.”
For many of these pastel artists, the creative process begins with a deep dive into the personality and emotional resonance of their subjects. “I start by really getting to know my model, whether through conversation, research, or simply close observation,” says Geraldine Butler. “ This helps me understand their unique qualities and translate that into my drawing, infusing each stroke with a sense of authenticity and personal connection.”
Portraiture and Figurative Art
Beyond the technical mastery of their craft, these contemporary pastel artists are also exploring the conceptual and thematic dimensions of portraiture, delving into themes of identity, emotion, and the human experience.
“Portraiture is a powerful medium for self-expression and storytelling,” notes Harvey Bailey. “ By reimagining the genre through the lens of their own lived experiences, artists can create compelling, thought-provoking works that challenge preconceptions and invite deeper reflection.”
For example, Kris Lee’s students often incorporate symbolic elements, surreal influences, or abstract compositional arrangements to convey the psychological and emotional complexities of their subjects. “ A portrait isn’t just a surface-level representation of someone’s features,” Lee explains. “ It’s an opportunity to delve into the essence of their being, to explore the multifaceted nature of human identity.”
Tutorials and Instructional Content
As the pastel drawing community continues to flourish, artists and educators are sharing their knowledge and expertise through a wealth of tutorials and instructional resources. From step-by-step demonstrations of core techniques to in-depth explorations of creative processes, these offerings provide aspiring artists with the tools and inspiration they need to develop their own distinctive styles.
“One of the great joys of working with pastel is the tactile, hands-on nature of the medium,” says Alfie Marsland. “ Through guided exercises and practical workshops, we can empower emerging artists to embrace the spontaneity and expressiveness of pastel, unlocking their full creative potential.”
Whether you’re a seasoned pastel enthusiast or a curious newcomer to the medium, the wealth of educational resources available on Pencil and Paint Muse (https://pencilandpaintmuse.com/) and beyond offer a wealth of insights and inspiration to help you reimagine the portrait and push the boundaries of figurative art.
Tip: Practice daily sketching to continually refine your technique