Capturing Beauty: A 10-Minute Sketch of a Flora Vase Using Soft Oil Pastels

Soft Oil Pastels

The world of art is vibrant and diverse, and one of the mediums that offers a unique blend of softness and intensity is soft oil pastel. Known for its creamy texture and vivid colors, soft oil pastel allows artists to create visually stunning effects. When combined with other mediums, such as gouache paint, the results can be truly mesmerizing.

Materials Needed for Your Sketch

In this sketch, I explored the versatility of mixed media by utilizing a combination of materials including mixed media paper, gouache, and soft oil pastel. Here I used the MUNGYO Soft Oil Pastel. The textures and colors provided by gouache created a vivid backdrop, while the soft oil pastels added depth and richness to the artwork.

A key technique I discovered for blending the soft oil pastels was surprisingly simple: using a cotton stick. This everyday tool allowed for smooth transitions and a seamless integration of colors without the need for any specialized equipment. The result was a beautiful, cohesive piece that showcased the unique qualities of each medium, demonstrating how a few basic materials can be transformed into something striking with creative techniques.

How to Paint Loosely

First, I began by loosely painting the rough shape of a vase adorned with flowers, without the constraint of precise strokes by gouache. Once the initial layer dried, I used soft oil pastels, focusing on capturing the intricate details of my subject.

With the vibrant colors of the pastels, I delicately blended the hues using a cotton stick, enhancing the texture and depth of my work, and of course, my fingers became an essential tool in this process, helping to create a rich, tactile experience. The result is a vibrant and expressive portrayal that reflects my creative instincts and passion for capturing beauty.

The final step involves adding a touch of vibrancy to both the flowers and the vase. Using soft oil pastels in shades of cream, light yellow, or light grey can bring a delightful brightness to your artwork. The subtlety of the light pastels can enhance the overall appeal, giving your composition a fresh and lively look. This finishing touch will not only highlight the beauty of the flowers but also add depth and dimension to the vase.