Mischa, I bought a bunch of paper three years ago and I can't remember what brand of paper this is. But I can tell you it is 50cm X 70cm. ( about 19 3/4 X 27 5/8" ) It is a sanded surface and comes in many colors - I used the black one. It comes with about 1 cm ( 1/2" ) of white border...so if any of you pastel masters out there recognize these specs... ;) do share!

Mischa, thanks for your nice response. It means a lot.

David

I second everyone's word here. I loved it.

Claudemir, thank you so much. You're very kind!

David

Oh David, this is exquisite! I am in awe of your ability.

David,
This is quite amazing. I love everything about it! I bought a set of pastels and some wallis paper with hopes of experimenting with this medium. You have certainly inspired me. What brand of pastels do you use? Any tips or suggestions?

Cynthia

Mary, thank you very much, but I do think you are being too kind. I know for a fact that I have a long way to go.

Cynthia, thanks! I've got a lot of different brands of pastels lying around. Most of this was done with pastel pencils (I'm still a control freak) - both "Pitt pastel" (Faber-Castell) and Cretacolor pencils. Then I used some Unisons - great pastels, "like buttuh!!" - for some deeper richer tones that the pencils could't match. I also might have used pastels from Artwork, Rembrandt, Schmincke...they were on my table. I didnt smudge at all, except for the background - I liked the texture I could achieve without smudging.

As for suggestions, I don't have any. I'm still trying to figure this medium out myself. I think every artist just needs to experiment and find out what turns them on. I would use Wallis or any other of the sanded papers out there. I've used charcoal paper and I don't think it holds up as well.

David

Wow, David, beautifully done.

This is beautiful and inspiring. I like the control you have shown over the medium. I wish my experiments turned out more like this. :)

Thanks for posting.

Richard

I think it's difficult to create a work that is both sensitive and dramatic but you have done it (again) - this is so lovely, David!

David,
What a beautiful painting to study. It stands repeating, this is to rich and full of life. I am amazed that it is pastel, your blending is amazing. And I love your color, too. Something about the painting makes you want to get to know the sitter. You have captured a personality here. Wonderful.