This quick study of light and shadow will give confidence to the beginner pastel artist. The simple shapes of the pears make this uncomplicated composition fun and easy to draw for kids as well as adults.

Good for ages 8-adult

Supplies:

Set of soft pastels
Kneaded eraser
Black, heavyweight construction paper, 9" x 12"
Photo reference of pears (see below)

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1. Using the sharp edge of a yellow ochre pastel, draw two circles, as shown to start the red pear in the center.

2. Now draw the sides of the pear. Be sure to look at the photo reference!

3. Add the stem shape and erase the inside lines.

4. Repeat steps 1, 2 and 3 for the rest of the pears.

5. Using the broad side of the soft pastels, swipe on the main color of each pear, but only on the parts of the pears that are NOT in shadow.

6. Carefully smudge the pastel with a clean finger.

7. Using a yellow ochre pastel, fill in the LIGHT side of each stem only. Do not smudge.

8. Using the broad side of a white pastel, rub on the highlights, as shown in the photo reference below.

9. Lightly smudge the white highlights with a clean finger.

10. Work the kneaded eraser into a point and carefully erase the remaining yellow ochre lines on the shadowy sides of the pears. Erase any other smudges as well.