Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Stunning Scenery Drawings with Oil Pastels

Introduction

Creating breathtaking scenery drawings with oil pastels is an incredibly rewarding artistic endeavor. The rich and vibrant colors of oil pastels allow you to capture the beauty of landscapes, seascapes, and more. In this guide, brought to you by Articci – Art Supplies & Classes Gold Coast, we’ll walk you through the process of creating stunning scenery drawings using oil pastels.

Materials You’ll Need

Before we dive into the steps, make sure you have the following materials ready:

– Oil pastels

– Quality paper or canvas

– Reference photo or sketch

– Acrylic medium (for added texture)

– Irodori (Japanese metallic ink)

– Watercolors (for mixed media effects)

Step 1: Selecting Your Reference

Choose a reference photo or sketch that inspires you. It could be a landscape, seascape, mountains, or any scene that you find captivating. Having a reference will guide your composition and color choices.

Step 2: Preparing Your Surface

Prepare your paper or canvas by applying a thin layer of acrylic medium. This will not only provide a unique texture but also help the oil pastels adhere better. Ensure that it has dried completely before proceeding.

Step 3: Sketching the Scene

Using a light-colored oil pastel, lightly sketch the main elements of your scene. You should not concern yourself with the details at this stage, but rather with the overall composition.

Step 4: Building the Background

Start with the background of your scenery. Use soft and light strokes to layer the oil pastels, blending the colors as you go. Consider using irodori to add subtle metallic accents that catch the light.

Step 5: Adding Foreground Elements

Move on to the foreground elements of your drawing. Apply more pressure to create bolder lines and define details. Adding layers of different colors will help you achieve a sense of depth.

Step 6: Creating Depth

To add depth to your drawing, use darker shades for distant objects and lighter shades for objects closer to the viewer. Blending is key here – use your fingers or blending tools to achieve smooth transitions between colors.

Step 7: Introducing Mixed Media (Optional)

For a unique touch, incorporate watercolors into your oil pastel drawing. Apply watercolors over specific areas to enhance certain colors or create interesting effects. This combination adds a dynamic and captivating dimension to your artwork.

Step 8: Final Details and Highlights

Refine the details of your drawing with finer lines and highlights. Use white oil pastel to make areas pop and create highlights where light would naturally hit the scene.

Step 9: Finishing Touches

Stand back and assess your drawing. Make any necessary adjustments and ensure that the colors, composition, and details are to your satisfaction.

Step 10: Protecting Your Artwork

Once your artwork is complete and fully dry, consider using a fixative spray to protect it from smudging and environmental factors. This is especially important for preserving oil pastel artworks.

Conclusion

Creating stunning scenery drawings with oil pastels is a delightful artistic process that allows you to explore your creativity and capture the beauty of the world around you. At Articci – Art Supplies & Classes Gold Coast, we’re dedicated to providing you with the finest materials and resources to enhance your artistic journey. So, gather your oil pastels, unleash your creativity, and let the colors flow onto your canvas, bringing breathtaking landscapes to life.

FAQ

What are oil pastels and why are they great for scenery drawings?

Answer: Oil pastels are vibrant and creamy art materials made with pigment, wax, and a non-drying oil binder. They’re perfect for scenery drawings due to their rich colors, blendability, and ability to create texture, making landscapes come alive with depth and detail.

Can I use oil pastels with other mediums like acrylics or watercolors?

Answer: Absolutely! Combining oil pastels with mediums like acrylics, watercolors, or ink acrylic can add unique effects to your artwork. Experimenting with these combinations can lead to captivating and innovative results.

How do I prevent my oil pastel drawings from smudging?

Answer: To prevent smudging, you can use a fixative spray once your artwork is complete. This protective layer keeps the oil pastels in place and preserves the vibrancy of your colors over time.

Do I need formal art training to create stunning scenery drawings?

Answer: No, formal training isn’t necessary. With practice, patience, and a willingness to learn, anyone can create beautiful scenery drawings. Joining art classes, like the ones offered by Articci, can provide expert guidance and help refine your skills.

How can I showcase my oil pastel artwork to a wider audience?

Answer: Share your artwork on social media platforms, art communities, and local exhibitions. High-quality photographs can capture the details and vibrancy of your oil pastel drawings, allowing you to reach a broader audience and receive valuable feedback.