Are you an aspiring artist looking to explore a new medium? Colour pencils are a versatile and beloved medium in the art world, cherished for their ability to create intricate and vibrant artworks. Among the many brands available, Derwent pencils stand out for their quality, range, and unique properties. We will delve into the art of colour pencils examining their characteristics, and the techniques that artists employ to make the most of this medium.

Why Use Colour Pencils for Fine Art?

Colour pencils are a popular choice for fine art for many reasons. They can be used for detailed drawings, subtle shading, and vibrant, bold artwork. Artists find them suitable for a wide range of styles and subjects. The pencils offer excellent control and allow you to create fine lines, intricate details, and smooth transitions. They are also compact and easy to carry, making them ideal for sketching on the go.

History of Derwent 

Derwent has a rich history dating back to 1832 when the Cumberland Pencil Company was established in Keswick, England. Over nearly two centuries, Derwent has evolved, continually innovating and expanding its product line to meet the needs of artists worldwide. The brand is renowned for its commitment to quality, which is evident in its pencils’ precision, colour vibrancy, and durability.

Characteristics of Derwent Drawing Pencils

Catering to different artistic needs and preferences, the extensive range of Derwent pencils offers an unmatched variety. With lines like Derwent Artist, Studio, Coloursoft, Inktense, and Lightfast pencils, you are sure to find just the right tools for your next masterpiece. 

Derwent Artist Pencils

The Artist line is known for its firm texture, making it ideal for detailed work and layering. These pencils have a wide colour range, allowing artists to create complex, layered artworks with subtle gradations.

Derwent Studio Pencils

Studio pencils are similar to the Artist line but have a slimmer barrel and a harder lead, making them perfect for fine lines and intricate details. They are among the favourites of illustrators and designers who require precision in their work.

Derwent Coloursoft Pencils

Coloursoft pencils are prized for their creamy texture and vibrant colours. They are softer than the Artist and Studio lines, enabling artists to achieve rich, bold tones with minimal effort. These pencils are particularly useful for blending and creating smooth colour transitions.

Derwent Inktense Pencils

Inktense pencils are unique because they combine the properties of ink and watercolour. When dry, they function like regular colour pencils, but when water is added, they transform into vibrant, ink-like washes. This dual functionality makes them highly versatile for mixed media projects.

Derwent Lightfast Pencils

Lightfast pencils are designed to resist fading over time, ensuring the longevity of artworks. They are formulated with high-quality pigments and binders, offering rich colours that remain vibrant even when exposed to light.

Techniques for Using Colour Pencils

Mastering the art of colour pencils involves understanding and utilizing various techniques to achieve desired effects. Here are some essential techniques artists use with Derwent pencils.

Layering

Layering involves building up colour gradually by applying multiple layers of pencil strokes. This technique allows artists to create depth, richness, and subtle variations in colour. The pencils, especially the Artist and Lightfast lines, are well-suited for this technique due to their firm texture and high pigment concentration.

Blending

Blending is the process of smoothing out colours to create seamless transitions. Artists can blend Derwent Coloursoft pencils easily due to their soft and creamy texture. Blending can be done using the pencils themselves, blending stumps, or even a brush with a solvent like mineral spirits.

Burnishing

Burnishing involves applying heavy pressure with a colourless blender or a light-coloured pencil to create a polished, glossy finish. This technique works well with pencils, as their high-quality pigments and binders respond well to the pressure, resulting in a smooth and vibrant surface.

Watercolour Effects

Derwent Inktense pencils offer the unique ability to create watercolour effects. By adding water to dry pencil marks, artists can achieve a range of textures and intensities, from light washes to intense, saturated colours. This technique is particularly effective for creating dynamic, mixed media artworks.

Cross-Hatching

Cross-hatching is a method of shading using intersecting sets of parallel lines. This technique can add texture, depth, and dimension to drawings. Derwent Studio pencils, with their fine points and hard leads, are ideal for precise cross-hatching.

Advanced Tips for Fine Art

• Colour Theory: Understanding colour theory can greatly enhance your artwork. Learn about complementary, analogous, and triadic colour schemes to create harmony and contrast in your drawings.
• Experimenting with Different Surfaces: Colour pencils can be used on various surfaces like textured paper, toned paper, or even wood. Different surfaces can provide unique effects and challenges.
• Maintaining Your Tools: Keep your pencils sharp for fine details. Use a good quality sharpener to avoid breaking the core. Store your pencils in a case to protect them from damage.
• Protecting Your Artwork: To preserve your finished pieces, consider spraying them with a fixative to prevent smudging. Store them in a portfolio or frame them under glass to protect from dust and light.

Closing Thoughts

The art of colour pencils is a rich and diverse field, offering endless possibilities for creativity and expression. Whether layering, blending, burnishing, or experimenting with watercolour effects, artists can rely on these gorgeous pencils to deliver consistent, high-quality results. Remember to experiment and enjoy the process, as practice and exploration are key to developing your skills and finding your unique style. Find your favourite hues and start creating detailed illustrations, vibrant landscapes, or abstract compositions.