This book investigates the technical versatility and expressive potential of pastel as a medium through the practical demonstrations of twenty professional artists. The author, Carole Katchen, compiles a diverse collection of approaches to pastel painting, providing a comprehensive look at how different practitioners manipulate color, texture, and light. By focusing on the specific workflows of established artists, the text serves as a bridge between foundational theory and advanced application in the studio.

The text provides a structured, instructional overview that is well-suited for intermediate artists seeking to expand their technical repertoire. Its reliance on multiple artist perspectives offers a broad range of methodologies that cater to different stylistic preferences.