Forgive me for the missing blog last week… I was busy bringing my daughter home from college!
Pastelmat is a relatively new surface and I have not used it very much, but when I have it feels almost creamy. The layers take pretty well, but at some point the surface starts to get slick for me. It feels like a very, very fine sandpaper. If you are a direct painter you may love it. If you layer a lot like me, then you may want to stick to a rougher surface. These surfaces start to become really about personal taste.
The Richeson boards I have used and they are the exact opposite. The texture is much rougher and it feels like painting on a concrete block when you first start. It reminds me of being a little kid and drawing with chalk on a sidewalk. Once you get a bunch of layers down, however, the upper layers have a soft finish and you can adjust things endlessly. Here is the beginning of a study I was doing in my model drawing class last week. My yellow stage is very broken on this surface.
There is a distinct “drag” to the surface no matter what sticks or strengths you are using. I have seen many masterful paintings putting this texture to good use though. Flowers especially. If a softer finish is needed, know that it will take a while to layer it up or just use something else.
So if you have not tried something as rough as the Richeson before, I suggest you give it a try. It can really take away your sense of control and so it may shake up your painting in a good way.
On a personal note, I am enjoying all 3 of my cygnets home with me this month. An Antiguan wedding is in the works in October for my oldest daughter, my youngest daughter is now officially a professional writer who just signed with a major book agent and will be on bookshelves soon and then my son, who will be a junior in high school, is now planning on competing in Nationals for rock climbing.
My life is full and abundant. Many lemons.
Next week- some homemade surface recipes.
Many lemons? Sounds like time for lemonade! Thank you for sharing these surfaces. I’ve never used Ruchesons, but eager to try.
Love this text and information! Good to the point and I will try that paper!! Thank you for sharing your color steps!!!!! I love painting portraits in pastel. So happy I found you. Thank you!
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Happy summer!
Are Richeson boards still available? I thought they were discontinued. Maybe that was just at Dakota…?
Thanks for these informative posts.
Yeah. I no realize they are gone too. Ive had mine forever.
Thoughly enjoying your take on surfaces. I agree about Pastelmat. It doesn’t offer the layering, control, and movement that I want. You described the “feel” so well.
Hi Christine, Where did you find the Richeson pastel paper? I don’t think they make it anymore. I really loved it and bought it when it first came out. I still have a few sheets left. I did like the way it took pastel and underpainting. My guess is there’s too much competition for paper?
Mine is on a board. Ive had it forever. Did not realize that was gone too.
Thank you Christine. I always look forward to your comments and like to hear about your children.
Sounds like the pieces of your life are falling in nicely. Well deserved 👍