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Introduction to Pastels
Subject Area
Art & Design, Fashion & Creative Crafts
Student Type
Adults
Study Mode
Part Time
Course Type
Community Learning
What is the course about?
This hands-on, practical part-time adult course is the perfect introduction to the expressive and versatile medium of soft pastels. You’ll explore the fundamentals of soft pastel drawing, learning essential techniques such as mark making, blending, colour theory, and how to create the illusion of depth in your artwork.
Why should I choose the course?
Designed for adults aged 19 and over, this soft pastel drawing course is ideal if you enjoy learning new creative techniques. Whether you're picking up a pastel for the first time or returning to art after a break, this short course gives you the confidence and guidance to begin producing soft pastel pieces of your own.
What will I learn?
You’ll develop your skills through demonstrations and practical tasks. Each week, you'll experiment with materials and grow your knowledge of colour, tone, and form.
You will learn how to:
- Map out a composition for soft pastel studies
- Build up your drawing using mark making, blending, and tonality
- Apply colour theory techniques to create either calming or high-impact compositions
- Use soft pastels to capture a variety of given and self-chosen subjects.
What will the course lead on to?
After completing this course, you can progress to our Next Steps in Pastels part-time adult course or another of our short courses.Â
Click here to view all of our available courses:Â Art & Design courses for adults
What support is available?
We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if it is required and a Wellbeing Team that are on hand to offer guidance, support and help when needed.
Additionally, eligible students can access a wide range of finance and funding support to help them during their time at college. For personalised advice on funding, please contact our Learner Services Team on 01925 494 400 or email learner.services@wvr.ac.uk.
Why should I choose to study the course at Warrington & Vale Royal College?
This course will be delivered by highly talented, experienced, and passionate staff, who are here to help you maximise your potential in pastel drawing.
You will develop a range of knowledge and skills to better prepare you for future employment. Soft pastels are also widely recognised as an incredibly popular and commercially viable form of artwork.
What are the entry requirements?
A passion and enthusiasm to try soft pastels as a media. No previous experience required.
What are my funding options?
For more information about financial support, please visit: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/financial-supportÂ
For personalised advice on funding, please contact our Learner Services Team on 01925 494 400 or email learner.services@wvr.ac.uk.
Are there any additional costs associated with the course?
Basic materials for the course are provided, however if any extra materials are required, the tutor will advise you of this at the first class.
Careers Information
Course options
02/06/2026
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