I recently rediscovered a new set of kids neon oil pastels I bought on clearance for my daughter.

But, of course, I have to try them out first.  Right? Nothing technical or precise. Just some general play. I tried them out on rougher mixed media paper.

On smoother computer paper.

On black construction paper.

And black cardstock.

I blended them and compared the results.

I compared their ability (or mine) to blend using various tools; my finger, a tortillion and a cotton swab.

Surprise surprise the smooth paper resulted in a smoother, creamier feel and was easier to blend. Though as evidenced by the black cardstock did not necessarily produce a better blend.  And speaking of black I was surprised the colors dulled. Usually when I use a neon it tends to pop more against black than white. 

Still the pastels were fun to play with. Even my daughter participated as soon as she saw them. First testing them out on my test papers.

Then creating her own masterpieces.

My test wasn't thorough or complete but it did give me a chance to play with my new pastels without the stress of thinking of something to create or making it happen. I simply got to feel the crayons in my hand and see the marks they created.

 This is the most I have done with my art supplies in a very long time. The excuse of life almost always gets in the way. From there the pressure of making the time you do get count, the unrealistic desire to make a masterpiece in one sitting, the compete lack of direction and ideas all shut down any hope of creating. 

Sometimes I need to remind myself that doing something is better than nothing. If all else fails I can just scribble color onto a page like my 3 year old and be happy that I made that.