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The Creative Process Behind My Western Art Pastel Paintings
How I Create My Western Art Pastel Paintings
Welcome to my Creative Process Series, where I share an inside look at how I create my detailed Western Art pastel paintings—from selecting reference photos to the final touches. As a Western pastel artist deeply rooted in ranch life and rodeo traditions, I focus on telling authentic stories through fine detail and texture.
These posts share both the heart behind each piece and the hands-on techniques I use to build my Western pastel paintings—from the first spark of inspiration to the final layered details. It’s a chance to look closely at my process, choices, and quiet moments that shape each painting along the way. Whether you’re a collector, fellow artist, or simply curious about my methods, I invite you to explore the step-by-step process behind each piece.
Why I Chose Pastel Pencils as My Medium of Choice – Part 1 of my Creative Process Series
Discover why I choose pastel pencils as my primary medium for creating realistic, emotionally rich Western art — from wildlife to horses, and everything in between. Pastel pencils offer the perfect balance of precision and softness for capturing the spirit of the American West.
What Inspires My Western Pastel Art – Part 2 of My Creative Process Series
“Inspiration for my Western pastel art starts with a lifetime of memories—from swimming horses in the river with friends to riding into town for ice cream cones. In this post, I share how those unforgettable ranch life experiences continue to shape my creative process and guide the stories I bring to life in pastel.”
Working with Reference Photos – Part 3 of My Creative Process Series
In Part 3 of my Creative Process Series, I’m diving into how I use reference photos—not just as a guide, but as a storytelling tool. I’ll share how I select my sources, the importance of composition and lighting, and how I build a scene that feels authentic and emotionally resonant. Featuring my painting Horse Prairie Roundup, this post takes you behind the scenes from inspiration to finished work.
my Pastel layering process – Part 4 of My Creative Process Series
Discover how I build a pastel painting from the ground up—starting with light graphite guidelines and working in careful layers of color. In Part 4 of my Creative Process Series, I walk you through my step-by-step pastel layering process, including how I develop fine details and work around backgrounds.
Finishing a Pastel Painting – Part 5 of My Creative Process Series
Discover how I finish a pastel painting with final details, shadows, and highlights before applying fixative. Part 5 of my Creative Process Series.
About the Artist
I’m Barby Schacher, a Western Art pastel artist with a deep love for horses, cattle, and ranch life. My work has been honored by the Western Art Rodeo Association and featured in national exhibitions.
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What You’ll Discover in This Series:
How I choose meaningful reference photos
Tools and materials I rely on to create pastel paintings
Composition planning and getting started
Layering techniques and detail work
My approach to lighting, shadows, and atmosphere
Final touches that bring each pastel painting to life
