February path and clearing

Well it’s a very good pastel - as for the white “ spots” this is the grain of the paper ( which you realise). Certain pastel papers I don’t like because the grain is too coarse so, unless I want that effect, I work on the reverse side ( eg Canson mi-teintes ). You could also lightly rub a base colour in before you start on the detail. I like your palette here , warm light against the cool blue.

I like the composition and the pastel itself… Tinted paper is the way to go, or as Marjorie has suggested, tint it yourself! I rarely use white paper for my occasional pastel work! And I’m not overly fond of the insipid pastel colours that are found in the pads… I prefer bold colours that show off the highlights! In actual fact, my favourite support is off-cuts of toned mountboard, greys and blues in particular , but keeping clear of the Ingres lined surface!

I like this Robert the white intentional or not looks like spots of sunlight to me . I love pastel work but unfortunately I don’t do enough to get better at it.

Despite all the weather conditions it's very good!

Nicely done and thanks for the good advice by Marjorie and Alan!

Yes indeed, my paper was a very light tan - a stronger base would have helped. On the more positive front, I think I might do a bit more in pastel - t'is a pity that one can't use every medium available before death intervenes! Many thanks for these useful comments. Always much appreciated.

Despite the chilly subject, this has a great warmth with the sunlight at the end of the path.

Good sketch Robert. Great tones and colours That type of paper does take some scrubbing at to cover completely

This is really great Robert.

Like this very much Robert, especially the highlighted blue water leading up to the light. The white spots work for me here, sunlit highlights. Something I have problems with, with paint and canvas (gessoed or previous attempt whited out), thinking of doing same as Marjorie suggested and putting down a base coat over the whole canvas.