Pefectly Imperfect

This pastel was done using Art Spectrum Colourfix paper. Mostly Terry Ludwig, Sennelier half sticks, and Girault soft pastels were used. The paper was toned already so I just began layering pastels to create this. I created this piece totally en plein air underneath the Avon Pier in the Outer Banks, NC. The wind was gusting 40 mph and I could barely keep my easel attachment still. The surf was pounding and the sand was pelting me. This created wonderful energy and spontaneity and no time for over thinking. The pier itself had been battered by hurricanes and had many imperfections that gave it character. I knew I would not touch this painting up at all once I got back to my beach house, the imperfect mark making evoked a feeling that I didn't want to ruin.