Signs of Spring

Signs of Spring, 8x8" Pastel on Paper

I have a love/hate relationship with my pastels. I love the richness of the colors and to be able to hold them directly in my hands as I spread that wonderful color over the slightly sanded surface. What I don't like is my dusty, dirty hands after I am done with a painting session. Even though I like working in watercolor and oils I still keep getting drawn back to my pastels......so I am trying to wear gloves while I paint with pastels to see if that will help. If it doesn't work wearing gloves I guess I will just have to put up with the dust because I do love my pastels.

Blustery Day

Blustery Day, 10x10" Pastel on Paper

Thinking about a windy, blustery day when I painted this yesterday. I am wondering where our El Nino has gone here in California, instead its dry, windy and hot! It was 90 degrees where I live yesterday and suppose to be in the 80's today! Oh well, at least I can dream of cooler days while painting my skies.

Looming Storm

10x10" Pastel on Paper

This is my first painting after the 30 in 30 challenge. There is something about skies that I have always loved. They give me a chance to paint abstract but at the same time representational. 
This pastel is of a prairie waiting for a looming storm.