Taking classes

There are many ways to learn to paint: from books, videos, regular classes, workshops, to name a few.
I find going to a regular pastel class very beneficial, for a number of reasons. One being that, since I already paid for it, I'm likely to attend and work hard. Another is the group environment, where you get to socialize with fellow students and learn from each other. The obvious one of having a teacher must not be forgotten. I am currently taking classes with Margaret Holland at the Calgary School of Art, and I'm very happy with her instruction.
I use all four aforementioned methods and enjoy them all.

This painting was part of a class project, were we all worked from the same photograph using the same paper (Canson Mi-Teintes). It was interesting to see the results - we each have our own style and the paintings looked very different from one another. Private collection.

Learning from the Masters - take 2

Here is another example of a transcription, this time from Matisse. It doesn't matter what Master you choose to learn from, the exercise will sharpen your skills, increase your confidence and give you a chance to paint without worrying about composition, form or colour. There are many sites on the Internet that have pictures of famous works of art; alternatively your local library will have a vast collection of art books. A color photocopy will be very helpful, specially if you choose to transfer the image onto your paper by applying charcoal or graphite to the back and tracing it. Above all relax and have fun.

Learning from the Masters - take 2

It is a good practise, encouraged in many art schools, to "transcribe" the work of Masters in order to learn from them. For the purpose of learning techniques it is not imperative that you copy the paintings exactly, but that you use the framework of a fully finished painting as a reference point for practising mark making with your pastels.
Van Gogh is one of my favourite painters, and I practise with his work often.
The objective is to develop confidence with the medium, practise techniques as you work, and above all to have fun!