Improving a Background or Foreground with Pastels

One of our members Michelle sent us her picture after completing the Prowling Tiger course. Michelle writes:

"Hello Colin and Steve,I have just completed the prowling tiger. Really enjoyed this challenge I would value any feedback from you and really appreciate the feedback you gave me on the kitten, I have ordered a charcoal in white :)From a very tired but satisfied Michelle!!"

To listen or read Colin's feedback please see below:Hi Michelle, I suggest you possibly photographed this rather than scanned reason I say that is it's quite warm and the whites instead of being very white, they're kind of a little bit dark or dull but that wouldn't matter anyway. So even if it isn't it looks good. The only thing I would say is the background or rather the foreground should I say could be a little brighter. It's a little bit scary when you're using either pastel pencils in an impressionistic way like I've done with the original or you're using soft pastel or polychromos. Each one of those will register you'll be able to put those into that background okay. You have to remember if you're going to use the lighter colours - the lighter greens or the ochres they will appear darker once they hit the pastel that you've already put on there. Just do a little bit to start with and you'll find that will work out. I like the idea and I do feel that that just needs to be a little bit brighter in the foreground.Other than that you've done a great job and it looks good I'm sure you're pleased with it.To receive feedback on your artwork and access our courses, please have a look at our membership options.