‘The Portrait in Pastel’: A Workshop with Shirley Chi

PORTRAIT IN PASTEL

2 AUGUST 2026

12 - 4 PM

From initial preparation through to the completion of a finished portrait, this workshop provides a comprehensive introduction to the core principles of realist pastel portraiture. Participants will explore the materials and technical foundations of the medium, including pastel types, suitable surfaces, and methods of application.

Particular emphasis will be placed on colour relationships, texture, and the interpretation of abstract colour and value shapes. Rather than relying on detailed feature rendering, students will learn to build convincing form through the strategic use of value, line, edge control, and expressive mark-making.

Led by Shirley Chi, a former competitor in Portrait Artist of the Year and a frequent exhibitor at the Green & Stone Summer Exhibition, the workshop will include brief demonstrations and individual tuition throughout the day. Participants will spend three to four hours working directly from a live model, putting these principles into practice while developing a finished portrait.

Each participant will also receive a complimentary set of 24 full-stick Inscribe pastels, providing a versatile palette for use during the workshop and beyond.

All levels are welcome.

All art materials are provided by Green & Stone.