The lightfastness properties of Rembrandt soft pastels offer significant benefits to artists, enhancing the longevity and integrity of their artworks.
Understanding Lightfastness Ratings
Rembrandt soft pastels are rated for lightfastness on a scale from 0 to +++:
0: 0-10 years under museum conditions
+: 10-25 years
++: 25-100 years
+++: At least 100 years
With 157 colours rated as +++, artists can be confident that their work will maintain its vibrancy for a century or longer under ideal conditions.
Benefits to Artists
Durability of Artwork: The high lightfastness ratings ensure that colours remain stable over time, reducing the risk of fading. This is crucial for artists who sell their work or display it in environments where exposure to light is inevitable.
Creative Freedom: Artists can use these pastels without worrying about colour degradation, allowing them to explore bold and vibrant colour palettes. The assurance of longevity enables more expressive techniques without the fear of losing colour intensity over time.
Professional Standards: The consistent lightfastness ratings align with professional standards, making Rembrandt pastels a reliable choice for serious artists. This is particularly important for those creating works intended for galleries or collectors who expect durability.
Layering Techniques: The medium-soft texture of Rembrandt pastels allows for effective layering, which is enhanced by their lightfast properties. Artists can build depth and complexity in their work while knowing that the underlying colours will not fade.
Marketability: For artists looking to sell their work, the high lightfastness rating can be a selling point, as buyers often seek pieces that will retain their beauty over time. This aspect adds value to artworks and instils confidence in potential buyers.
The lightfastness properties of Rembrandt soft pastels not only ensure the longevity of artworks but also empower artists with creative freedom and professional credibility, making them a preferred choice in the pastel medium.
