Introduction to Soft Pastels: Materials, Surfaces & Techniques
2-Hour Hands-On Taster Workshopwith Sue Raccanello

Introduction to Soft Pastels: Materials, Surfaces & Techniques

2-Hour Hands-On Taster Workshop

In this 2-hour creative session, you’ll be gently guided into the vibrant world of soft pastels — a beautiful, expressive medium that blends colour, light, and texture like no other.

Whether you're completely new to pastels or looking to refine your knowledge, this session will introduce you to the wide variety of soft pastels available today, including:

• The different types and qualities of pastels on the market (from student to professional grades)

• Staple pastel brands and colours ideal for beginners and passionate hobbyists alike

• Where to purchase materials locally and online — including budget-friendly starter options

We'll also explore the diverse range of surfaces that work best with soft pastels, from sanded papers that hold many layers, to velvet-like papers that create luxurious, painterly effects.

What You'll Experience:

This workshop is not just informational — it's highly hands-on and practical. You’ll have the chance to test a variety of pastels and surfaces for yourself, experimenting with blending, layering, and mark-making techniques.

As part of your creative exploration, you’ll also complete a small, frame-worthy pastel piece to take home — a perfect introduction and prerequisite for the upcoming full-day pastel workshop focused on seascapes and capturing dynamic ocean light.

This is a welcoming, relaxed environment for creative play, learning, and building confidence with pastels — whether you're just starting out or rekindling your artistic spark

Friday 14th November  1.00pm- 3.00pm  

Book your ticket there are limited spaces:

$65 per person - Non Members | $35 for ERAS Members 

or Become a ERAS member (includes workshop ticket) $60

Book online at https://www.trybooking.com/DFFMM

Please note that spots are limited so bookings are essential.

About Sue Raccanello

Sue Raccanello has had the innate gift of drawing what she sees — not just what she knows — since childhood. Encouraged by a patient and supportive grandmother, young Sue could often be found trailing behind her with pencil and paper in hand, asking, "What will I draw now, Nan?" Growing up on a farm provided an endless supply of inspiring subjects and natural beauty to sketch and explore.

Sue began teaching art to children in her home studio in 1990. Over time, her passion evolved, and she began teaching adults — a pivotal moment in her creative journey. Her work began appearing in magazines, and it was during this period that Matisse Derivan invited her to trial their acrylic paint range. This marked the beginning of a long-standing relationship with the brand, where Sue has served as a contributing artist for many years — testing products, sharing feedback, and even having her artwork featured on packaging sold around the world.

Since 1993, Sue has been leading workshops across Australia and New Zealand. While she has explored nearly every artistic medium, she has primarily worked with charcoals, acrylics, and watercolours throughout her career. The arrival of water-based oils — a welcome alternative for someone sensitive to strong perfumes and solvents — was a delightful addition to her practice.

Although Sue purchased soft pastels over 14 years ago, they remained untouched in her studio for more than a decade. Even joining the Victorian Pastel Society 11 years ago wasn’t enough to spark her pastel journey. That changed nearly two years ago when she finally attended a workshop — and from that moment on, she never looked back.

Sue now delights in the immediacy, vibrancy, and tactile joy of soft pastels — referring to them as “gorgeous little sticks of pure joy.” The rich colours and ease of application have made them a staple in her creative life, and her enthusiasm has spread to her students. Her regular classes in Moama are filled with kindred spirits who fondly refer to themselves as “Sue’s Dustmites.”

With decades of experience, an infectious love of art, and a heart for teaching, Sue continues to inspire others to see the world through colour, light, and playful expression.