For this AEP spread, I explored a variety of mediums including oil pastel, charcoal, mixed media, and photography. I wanted to understand how different materials could create different visual effects and communicate ideas in unique ways. Through still life studies, artist-inspired works, observational drawings, and photography, I experimented with both realistic and expressive approaches to art.

One of the biggest challenges was adapting to different mediums because each one required a different way of working. Oil pastels required careful observation of colour, reflections, and light, especially when drawing transparent objects like glass. Charcoal was difficult to control and often became messy, making it challenging to create clean tonal transitions. In the Chagall-inspired work, I struggled to move away from realism and think more creatively. Photography presented another challenge because the birds were constantly moving, making it difficult to capture the right composition and moment.

To overcome these challenges, I spent more time observing details before drawing and experimented with different techniques for each medium. For oil pastel, I focused on layering colours and studying highlights instead of relying on outlines. When working with charcoal, I practised controlling tonal values and learned to use smudging more effectively. For the Chagall-inspired piece, I studied how artists use colour and imagination to communicate emotions, which encouraged me to be more expressive. During photography, I became more patient and took multiple shots from different viewpoints to improve my composition and timing.

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