Introduction to Pastel Painting
with Debbie Minns
May 19th - 20th, 2026 | 10:30AM-4PM
With 1 Hour Lunch (12:30-1:30)
204 S Austin Street Rockport, TX
$175 for Members, $220 for Non-Members
Workshop Description
Through guided exercises and practice, we’ll explore materials and techniques for creating pastel paintings with vivid color and expressive, bold marks.
Participants will experiment with a range of surfaces and tools, helping those new to pastels discover what works best for them. Along the way, we’ll focus on building skills in layering, mark-making, and blending.
The class will include both individual guidance and group feedback, creating a supportive environment where everyone can learn and grow together.
Skill Level:
Beginner to Intermediate
Supply List:
Bring any soft pastels and drawing or pastel paper that you already have. Bring disposable gloves and wet wipes if you have them.
If you want to purchase a good basic set of pastels, I recommend a set of 15 or 30 Rembrandt Half- Sticks. A larger set is great if you want to invest in one. These are a good quality, medium hardness pastel. Purchasing half-sticks is an economical way to try more colors. NOTE that pastels vary greatly relative to the pigment and ease of application. I don’t recommend buying inexpensive student grade pastels. Rembrandt, Art Spectrum, Sennelier, Unison, Holbein, Diane Townsend, Great American, Mount Vision, Terry Ludwig are all very good brands but quite a bit pricier.
Bring some white drawing or pastel paper. Sanded pastel paper in a lighter color is recommended but not essential.
I will bring lots of pastels and surfaces for students to try so don’t feel like you have to purchase anything you might not use again.
About the Instructor
Debbie Minns has been involved in art education for decades. She has been exploring pastels for over 20 years. Her pastel works have won numerous awards including “Best in Show” awards.
REGISTER FOR CLASS
May 19th - 20th, 2026
10:30AM-4PM
(With a Lunch Break)
$175 Members, $220 Non-Members