Charcoal and Pastel Portraits on Toned Paper
In this weekend class, students will create charcoal and pastel portraits on toned paper, learning a clear, step-by-step approach to drawing the head with structure, depth, and believable light. Working on toned paper allows students to think in terms of middle value, adding both light and shadow to build form quickly and effectively.
We will focus on the four essential elements of strong drawing: proportion, value, edges, and simple color relationships (using pastel for light accents and temperature shifts). Students will work from both photo reference and a live model to understand how to apply the same process in different situations.
Each session includes live demonstrations by Dominique and individual critiques for every student. This class emphasizes observation, simplicity, and confident mark-making, helping students strengthen their ability to see accurately and build form with clarity.
Required Supplies
Pencils: You can use any brand of pastel pencils you like. Dominique uses Stabilo CarbOthello.
- Generals Charcoal: https://amzn.to/4j4wTZ6
- Vine Charcoal: Winsor&Newton (Soft), Any kind is fine: https://amzn.to/40rM6w3
- CarbOthello Basic Set: https://amzn.to/3VcVlO5
- CarbOthello Recommended Set: https://amzn.to/3wQ8Tpm
Paper: We will use 1 or 2 sheets per class
- Canson Drawing Pad Mi-Teintes, 12"X16" (assorted colors): https://amzn.to/4bUHyRV
Drawing Board: You need a drawing board either 16”x20” or 18”x 24”
- This will hold your reference and paper https://amzn.to/4dRTky5
- 6-8 Drawing board clips, binder clips are fine (varying sizes) https://amzn.to/3EYp0R2
Erasers + Sharpeners
- Generals Kneaded Eraser (must have) https://amzn.to/2Xx9lqG
- Stabilo Eraser https://amzn.to/3x0rXBc
- Tombow (optional) https://amzn.to/4ayUcF
- Stabilo Pencil Sharpener (travel) https://amzn.to/44V1ulc
- Afmat, Long Point, Pencil Sharpener (best studio sharpener) https://amzn.to/3Vg4Tbg
Additional Materials:
- Artists Tape https://amzn.to/3AnrSnI
- Sketchbook and Pencil (for notes and sketching) https://amzn.to/3CObfT2
- Mahl stick/Backscratcher (perfect for keeping your hands off the paper) https://amzn.to/30H2PPD
Optional Materials:
- Kolormondo Color Wheel https://amzn.to/3WU7A3m
- Fixative Spray (protective spray for drawings) https://amzn.to/4dWdcjI
*Above are affiliate links, they don’t cost you any extra or raise the price but I (instructor) make a small commission when you use these links. Thank you!
Dominique Medici
Dominique Medici is a figurative oil painter based in Seattle. She studied in London and has exhibited both nationally and internationally. Medici has received awards...