Pastel on sanded paper

16x20 graphite/pastel on Art Spectrum paper

I am trying out a sanded pastel paper called Art Spectrum Colorfix. Pastel is still a frustrating medium for me as it takes so many layers to get the depth I am used to with oils. This paper does not work as well with my favorite General pastel pencils or shading with graphite. It requires softer pencils. I kept this less detailed to go with the bright colors. This child always has her happy face on and is a joy to be around.