Developing the full potential of pastels as a medium was one main impetus of this project, exploring pastels mixed with other media and illuminating the best practices of master pastelists. The other key aim of the research was extending awareness and excitement about pastels, aiding a wider circulation of artists using the medium, as well as its art audience. The studio work theme tracked two young persons' struggles while coming of age in today's rapidly evolving world. This theme was chosen in part because the exploration of youth having to mitigate the exertion of traditional forces from their milieu offered significant parallels to what the pastel medium has undergone historically in its contention for acceptance in the art world.

This study was guided by literature review; on-site observations, along with one-on-one instructional experiences from workshops with master pastelists; studio work; testing and applying mixed media techniques and experimentation; and, applying the masters' recommended practices in creating art pieces as part of this research project's objectives.

Key pastel-centric techniques and methods were adopted and customized in this study to: 1) ensure optimal visual interaction between viewers and the artist's subject matter; 2) establish or expound upon knowledge of specific pastel effects; 3) identify essential pastel materials and preparations for mixed-media application; and 4) provide specialty mixed media pastel works to connect with current trends in art.