Pastellivälineet

Pastellivälineet, commonly known as pastels, are an art medium consisting of powdered pigment bound with a binder and compressed into a stick. The term "pastel" can refer to both the medium itself and the artwork created using it. Pastels are known for their vibrant, powdery colors and the soft, velvety texture they produce on paper or canvas.

There are several types of pastels, each offering a distinct artistic effect. Soft pastels, the most common type, are highly pigmented and blend easily, allowing for subtle transitions and rich color saturation. Harder pastels, also known as pastel pencils or oil pastels, contain more binder, resulting in a firmer stick that is less prone to smudging and can create sharper lines. Oil pastels, while using a wax or oil binder, are often categorized separately due to their distinct application and blending properties, which are more akin to oil paints.

The application of pastels can vary. Artists typically use them dry, often employing blending tools like tortillons or fingers to soften edges and create gradients. They can also be applied wet with water or a solvent, which can create effects similar to watercolor or diluted paint. The surface on which pastels are applied is crucial; textured papers or canvases, such as sanded paper, provide a "tooth" that helps the pastel adhere and build up layers effectively. Pastels are a versatile medium, suitable for everything from quick sketches to detailed portraits and landscapes.