Pastels are a type of art medium made from powdered pigments mixed with a binder. They come in sticks and are known for their soft, vibrant colors. Artists use pastels to create drawings and paintings, often blending them to achieve smooth transitions and rich textures. The most common types of pastels are soft pastels, hard pastels, and oil pastels, each offering different effects and techniques. Pastels have been used since the Renaissance and gained popularity among artists like Edgar Degas and Mary Cassatt. They are favored for their ease of use and the ability to create detailed, colorful works. Pastel artworks can be fragile and often require protective measures, such as framing under glass, to preserve their beauty.