Steve Williamson

Pastels

I think that this is a very immediate medium. The colour is in your hand - no brush or palette knife, no mixing with water or oil - just you and your subject matter. And it is as versatile as any other medium.

The Way Through The Woods - Kipling's mysterious poem, from which this title comes, was the inspiration for this impressionist piece, only my "way" is still extant! The subdued colouring and loose style echo the quietude of his wood. This path is rarely visited - I like the way it wanders off into the trees.

Bamboo Patterns - the patterns are much more clear cut, but also repetitive, so tonal value giving depth to bushes and the changing colours on the leaves as the light falls across them are what gives the picture its charm.

Midnight Ride - Another dark picture, but how different from the other two! Full of action, and beautiful shapes. The balloons are suffused with light from the flames, while the midnight sky glows darkly.

The Eastgate In Summer - Pastels do light as well, and how summery Chester looks. The strong sun strikes the warm sandstone of the arch and the light summer clothes of passers-by take up the theme.