One of the questions I am most often asked is, "What exactly are PanPastels?"

Although many people are familiar with traditional soft pastels, PanPastels remain a relatively new and exciting medium in the art world. They offer a unique way of applying pure artist's pigment, allowing colours to be blended with extraordinary subtlety while retaining the richness and vibrancy that make pastel such a beautiful fine art medium.

For me, PanPastels are the perfect choice for capturing the elegance of the horse and the gentle expression of a much-loved dog.

​

A Soft, Painterly Quality

Unlike traditional pastel sticks, which are applied directly to the paper, PanPastels are applied using specially designed soft applicators. This allows the pigment to be layered almost like paint, creating smooth transitions, delicate tonal changes and beautifully soft edges.

The result is a painterly style that sits somewhere between traditional pastel and oil painting. Rather than producing highly detailed, photographic copies, I aim to create artwork with atmosphere, depth and feeling while remaining true to the character of my subject.

It is this balance between realism and impressionism that has become the hallmark of my work.

​

Capturing Light

One of the greatest strengths of PanPastels is their ability to capture light.

Whether it is the silvery sheen of a grey horse, the rich gloss of a black Labrador's coat or the warm glow of evening sunlight across a chestnut horse, PanPastels allow me to build delicate layers of colour that create luminosity without appearing overworked.

Because the pigments remain so vibrant, I can achieve subtle colour variations that help bring life and movement to every painting.

​

Perfect for Fur and Horse Coats

The velvety nature of PanPastels makes them particularly suited to painting animals.

They allow me to recreate the softness of a Golden Retriever's coat, the silky curls of a Cocker Spaniel or the smooth sheen of a Thoroughbred with remarkable subtlety.

Instead of relying on hard outlines, I gradually build transparent layers of colour, allowing the textures to emerge naturally while maintaining a fresh, painterly appearance.

​

Expressive Rather Than Photographic

While creating an accurate likeness is always important, my aim is never simply to copy a photograph.

I want each painting to capture something deeper—the quiet intelligence in a horse's eye, the affectionate tilt of a dog's head or the peaceful atmosphere of a summer field.

PanPastels allow me the freedom to soften backgrounds, emphasise beautiful light and compose each painting in a way that tells a story rather than simply recording a moment.

​

Archival Quality

I use only professional artist-quality PanPastels, traditional soft pastels and pastel pencils on archival pastel surfaces and papers.

These materials contain highly lightfast pigments, meaning that with sensible care your artwork can be enjoyed for generations. Unlike many reproductions or printed images, an original pastel painting is created entirely by hand using pure artist's pigments, making every piece completely unique.

​

Why They Suit My Style

People often describe my work as having a soft, painterly quality, and I believe PanPastels are a perfect reflection of the way I see the world.

I am drawn to quiet moments rather than dramatic ones—a horse pausing to look over its shoulder, two companions gently grooming one another or the soulful expression of a much-loved dog. PanPastels allow me to capture not only the physical likeness of my subjects but also the atmosphere, emotion and light that first inspired me to pick up my pastels.

Every portrait and original painting is created patiently by hand, with the aim of producing timeless artwork that celebrates the beauty, character and individuality of every horse and dog I paint.

​

Frequently Asked Question

What are PanPastels?

PanPastels are professional artists' pastels presented in shallow pans rather than traditional sticks. They contain the same high-quality, pure pigments as professional soft pastels but can be applied with specially designed tools that allow exceptionally smooth blending and layering. This makes them ideal for creating the soft, painterly effects that are a defining feature of my artwork.