Architectural Elements in Pastel

This week I wanted to share some prints that I created using a pastel chalk technique. The three that I have posted all have architectural elements to them. I haven’t created many prints using this technique, but thought it did bring a unique look to the subject matters attached.

The first one is the door to the train station in Glendale, California (Los Angeles area). The train station was built in 1924 by the Southern Pacific Railroad using a romantic Spanish Colonial Revival style. The elaborate architectural details immediately becomes a visual focal point. The station now serves for both Amtrak and the Los Angeles Metro Rail system and was purchased by the city of Glendale in 1989. I liked the way this technique highlight the colors and architectural detail of this door.

Pastel Train Station Door

The second print is the Daniels and Fisher Tower located in downtown Denver along the 16th Street Mall.  The tower was constructed in 1910 as part of the Daniels and Fisher department store. At that time it was the tallest structure between the Mississippi River and California. Again, this technique highlights the color of the brick facade and compliments the architectural details

D&F Tower In Pastel Chalk

The third print is from Union Station in downtown Denver, Colorado. Behind Union station is the transit center where Amtrak, light rail and RTD buses come together. The difference between the first two examples and this one, is that this structure is is very modern in design, but again the subtle colors pop out with this technique complimenting the design element.

Denver Transit Center In Pastel

Thoughts?

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32 thoughts on “Architectural Elements in Pastel

  1. Writing to Freedom

    I like them all, and my favorite is the last one. Your post makes me think it might be fun to start photographing buildings for the architectural details, and eventually I’m going to experiment with some digital effects beyond minor lighting and contrast that I do on my photos.

    Reply
    1. Kirt D Tisdale Post author

      I am drawn to interesting architecture and have been photographing these elements since college days. With the advent of digital art, I am always fascinated with what happens to the details of architectural elements using various methods. I have also done these three in a colored pencil motif and that highlights the same general elements, but with a slightly different look. It’s been fun and I would encourage you to test the waters…thanks for stopping by! Hope all is well!

      Reply
  2. D. Wallace Peach

    Those are so fascinating. I’m amazed at what you do with photos. I do like the detail in the Spanish architecture, but I also thought the last one was the most interesting. I wondered why and I think it was the variation of color in the background versus the solid blue sky. I like the blending colors suggesting the city while Union Station is featured. A fun experiment, Kirt. 🙂

    Reply
  3. Sue Slaght

    Kirt the word that comes to mind is ‘texture’ especially in the first two. Interesting how so much colour can bring out the detail so much. Is there a reason you haven’t created many prints using this technique? I’m always amazed at the variety in your art. Beautiful as always.

    Reply
    1. Kirt D Tisdale Post author

      Thanks for the feedback, Sue…much appreciated!! I’ve played with this technique over the last few years, but truly didn’t like the results. From my perspective it only works on certain subjects. I truly appreciate your kind words!!

      Reply
  4. Tiffany Mendonca

    These are amazing! I really love the pastel chalk technique, it really has these structures viewed in a different light so to speak. The technique also makes the prints look like they’re on canvas (unless they are), which I love! Beautiful work!

    Reply
    1. Kirt D Tisdale Post author

      Thank you very much Denise, I appreciate your feedback. I had fun with this technique and thought it pulled out the colorful architectural detail well! Thanks for stopping by!!

      Reply

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