Oil Pastels
You can see/purchase oil pastels at Utrecht Art Supplies
Oil pastels are a relatively new media, dating from the early 20th century. In 1921, an artist named Yamamoto developed a crayon fashioned after the wax used for encaustics (a process that is about 2000 years old). This wax/pastel combination was actually developed for children but later caught the eye of professional artists. In 1949, Sennelier developed the first oil pastel for professional artists.
Oil pastels are created from pigments mixed with an oil and wax binder. The binder keeps the pastels from creating dust and allows interesting textures from the layering of colors. The medium will not harden or fade and is acid-free. Oil pastels come in a variety of grades, from student to professional, and can be used on many supports.
Many professional artists have embraced oil pastels including Pablo Picasso, who was instrumental in Sennelier's development of the professional version.
Example of Pablo Picasso oil pastel drawing
(cannot place on page due to copyright restrictions)
Oil pastels are also a popular choice for children due to their ease of use and vibrant colors.
First Grade Oil Pastel Drawing
Second Grade Oil Pastel Drawing
Some web sites with oil pastel information and tutorials:
Oil Pastels by Mary: Underpainting Oil Pastels with Alcohol Wash
Explore Oil Pastels with Robert Sloan
Oil Pastel Techniques
Empty Easel: Guide to Painting with Oil Pastel
Oil Pastels for Beginners
eHow: Oil Pastels History
Sennelier Oil Pastels YouTube video
Some contemporary artists who use oil pastel:
Oil Pastel Society
Eric D. Greene
John Elliot
Roman Burgan
Lucina Roark