Oil Pastels vs. Pastels

Attribute	Oil Pastels	Pastels
Composition	Oil-based pigments mixed with wax or oil binders	Pigments mixed with a binder, usually gum arabic
Application	Smooth and creamy, can be applied thickly or thinned with solvents	Dry and powdery, applied by rubbing or smudging
Texture	Buttery and soft	Dry and chalky
Blending	Can be easily blended using fingers, blending tools, or solvents	Can be blended using fingers, blending tools, or by layering colors
Fixative	Requires a fixative spray to prevent smudging	Requires a fixative spray to prevent smudging
Drying Time	Takes longer to dry due to the oil content	Dries quickly
Surface	Can be used on various surfaces including paper, canvas, wood, and more	Primarily used on paper or textured surfaces
Color Intensity	Colors are generally more vibrant and intense	Colors can be vibrant, but may appear softer
Layering	Can be layered easily, allowing for rich and textured effects	Can be layered, but may result in a powdery buildup

Introduction

Artists have been using pastels as a medium for centuries, and it has evolved into various forms, including oil pastels. Both oil pastels and pastels offer unique qualities and characteristics that make them popular among artists. In this article, we will explore the attributes of oil pastels and pastels, highlighting their similarities and differences.

Composition

Pastels are made of pure powdered pigment mixed with a binder, usually gum arabic or gum tragacanth, which helps hold the pigment together. The binder gives pastels a soft and powdery texture, allowing them to be easily blended and layered on paper or other surfaces. On the other hand, oil pastels are composed of pigment mixed with a non-drying oil and a wax binder. This composition gives oil pastels a creamy and buttery consistency, making them more similar to oil paints than traditional pastels.

Application

When it comes to application, pastels are known for their ability to create vibrant and expressive marks. They can be applied directly to the surface, allowing artists to achieve a wide range of effects, from delicate lines to bold strokes. Pastels can be blended using fingers, blending tools, or even brushes, enabling artists to create smooth transitions and gradients. Oil pastels, on the other hand, offer a different experience. Due to their oily composition, they glide smoothly on the surface, making them ideal for creating rich and textured layers. Artists can also blend oil pastels using solvents or other oil-based mediums, resulting in a more painterly effect.

Color Intensity and Permanence

Both oil pastels and pastels offer a wide range of colors, allowing artists to explore their creativity. However, oil pastels tend to have a higher color intensity compared to traditional pastels. The pigments in oil pastels are more concentrated, resulting in vibrant and saturated hues. Pastels, on the other hand, may appear slightly softer and more muted, although they can still produce beautiful and subtle color variations. In terms of permanence, pastels are generally considered to be more lightfast than oil pastels. Pastel pigments are less prone to fading over time, ensuring the longevity of the artwork. Oil pastels, on the other hand, may fade or darken over time, especially if not properly protected or framed.

Surface Compatibility

Both oil pastels and pastels can be used on a variety of surfaces, including paper, canvas, and even wood. However, there are some differences in their compatibility with different surfaces. Pastels adhere well to textured surfaces, such as pastel paper or sanded paper, allowing artists to create a range of effects using the tooth of the paper. They can also be used on canvas, although additional fixatives may be required to prevent smudging. Oil pastels, on the other hand, work best on surfaces with some tooth or texture. They can be used on paper, canvas, or even board, providing a versatile option for artists. However, oil pastels may not adhere as well to smooth surfaces, and additional precautions may be needed to prevent smearing or smudging.

Layering and Blending

Both oil pastels and pastels offer artists the ability to layer and blend colors, but the techniques used may differ. Pastels are known for their ability to create multiple layers of colors, allowing artists to build up depth and create rich textures. They can be easily blended using various tools, such as blending stumps or tortillons, to achieve smooth transitions between colors. Oil pastels, on the other hand, are more forgiving when it comes to layering and blending. Due to their creamy consistency, oil pastels can be easily layered on top of each other, creating a thick and luscious texture. Blending oil pastels can be done using solvents or by simply using the fingers to smudge and mix the colors together.

Fixatives and Framing

Both oil pastels and pastels require fixatives to protect the artwork and prevent smudging. Pastels, being powdery in nature, are more prone to smudging and may require multiple layers of fixative to ensure their stability. Oil pastels, on the other hand, do not require fixatives as they dry to a more stable and less smudge-prone finish. However, it is still recommended to use a fixative to protect the surface and prevent any potential damage. When it comes to framing, both oil pastels and pastels should be framed under glass to protect them from dust, moisture, and UV rays. The use of a mat or spacer is also recommended to prevent the artwork from directly touching the glass.

Conclusion

Oil pastels and pastels offer artists unique qualities and characteristics that make them versatile and popular mediums. While pastels provide a soft and powdery texture, oil pastels offer a creamy and buttery consistency. Both mediums allow for vibrant colors, layering, and blending, but oil pastels may have a higher color intensity. Pastels are generally more lightfast, while oil pastels may require additional protection to prevent fading. Both mediums can be used on various surfaces, but oil pastels work best on textured surfaces. Fixatives and proper framing are essential for preserving the artwork created with both oil pastels and pastels. Ultimately, the choice between oil pastels and pastels depends on the artist's preference and desired effects, allowing for endless possibilities in artistic expression.