What is pastel?

• A. A form of colored chalk used for large murals.
• B. A chalky medium used for murals.
• C. A type of colored chalk applied to textured paper to achieve a delicate image.
• D. A substance used to seal wood.

Answer: (C)

Pastel is a dry pigment medium sold in chalk-like sticks that artists apply to textured (toothy) paper. The rough surface grips the pigment, allowing smooth blending and subtle color transitions that produce a delicate, luminous effect. That exact description—colored chalk applied to textured paper to create a delicate image—captures how pastel works, which is why this choice fits best. It isn’t typically used for large murals, and it isn’t a wood sealant, so the other options describe different materials or uses that don’t match pastel’s character.