I started using pastels during the first COVID lockdown in 2020 and joined Sue’s group at the start of the second. I had no formal training for my art and using Sue’s tutorials I lave learned so much.

Much of my learning with Sue was basic, like how to sharpen my pencils using sandpaper or a craft blade, how to use a wedge shape for drawing hair how to get a sharp point. What the difference in the papers was, how to use carbon paper to make a tracing and the best way to keep the lines light when using it.

However, I have also learned how to use an under painting to get more depth and shape, how to use pan pastels and pastel sticks. And how to refine fur.  The under painting using pan pastels and then the use of Unison Soft Pastels on the contrast photo giving the hair more depth. Sue is an excellent kind and patient teacher who quietly continues to build my confidence in my art and I can’t thank her enough. 

The photos below demonstrate this very well.

“Sue is an excellent kind and patient teacher who quietly continues to build my confidence in my art and I can’t thank her enough.”

This is a Pug that I painted before tuition with Sue

This is a Labrador that I painted after tuition with Sue.  You can see that I have achieved depth in the fur this time. I’m so happy with this piece!  And below, my most recent tutorial piece with Sue – a Snow Leopard