Texas Pastel Society News

1st Annual Spring Paint Out and a Demo by Kraig Kiedrowski

2012-02-22T19:57:00.001-08:00

Upper Meadow by Kraig Kiedrowski

Join us on Thursday , March 22 , 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. for our 1st Annual Spring Paint Out! Kraig Kiedrowski will do a plein air demo and we may bring a painting for Kraig to critique after the demo.

Schedule is as follows:

Demo and critique - 10 a.m. - 12n.

Lunch break 12- 1 p.m.

Paint Out - 1 - 3 p .m. No teacher.

Bring your easels, a chair, umbrella, hat, water, etc.

Spring Paint Out will take place at the Antique Rose Emporium, 7561 E. Evans Rd., 210-651-4565. Directions: from SA, 35N, left on 1604, right on FM 2252(Nacogdoches), Rolling Oaks Mall is at the corner, left on Evans Rd. If you are coming south on IH35, then turn right on 1604, and follow through with the previous directions.

To read about Kraig and see his beautiful artwork, go to www.kraigkiedrowski.com .

TWO FOR SHOW EXHIBIT

2012-02-18T19:54:00.000-08:00

Two for Show-Artworks by
Jeannette Cuevas and Terry Smith
By Appointment
The Villa
2403 St. Mary's
San Antonio, Tx.
210-846-2783
Closing reception on March 9

Doug Dawson Studio Landscape Workshop

2012-02-18T07:06:00.000-08:00

Doug Dawson will be in San Antonio for a 3 - day Studio Landscape Workshop. That's Monday - Wednesday, October 15 - 17 , 2012. A great opportunity to study with a Master Pastelist!

Workshop fee: Members - $325
Non-members - $375
$100 deposit to hold your spot. Send check made out to Texas Pastel Society, P.O.Box 37066, San Antonio, Texas 78237-9998.

"Snow on 16th St." pastel
©Doug Dawson

About the Artist

Biography
Doug Dawson was born in Oak Park, Ill. He attended Macalester College in St. Paul, Minnesota and Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. He taught science and art for the Denver Public schools for 6 years. He has taught art for Colorado Institute of Art, Colorado Christian University, and The Art Students League of Denver. He is a founding board member for the The Art Students League of Denver, where he presently teaches a Plein Air class and a Studio Landscape class. He teaches 8 to 10 workshops around the country each year. For a list of workshops go to Workshop Info.
Doug Dawson has received numerous awards from a number of different art organizations, including but not limited to: The Pastel Society of America, American Watercolor Society, Knickerbocker Artists, The National Academy of Western Art, Southeastern Pastel Society, Pastel Society of West Coast, Audubon Artists, Kansas Pastel Society, Pastel Society of the Southwest, and the International Association of Pastel Societies. To honor his achievements, he was given the title of Master Pastelist by the Pastel Society of America (NY, NY) in 1985 and awarded the title of Master Circle by the International Association of Pastel Societies in 2005 (California).
***Pastel Society of America in New York---2008 Hall of Fame
Doug Dawson is represented by the Ventana Gallery in Santa Fe, New Mexico; Telluride Gallery, in Telluride Colorado, the Corpus Christi Art Connection in Corpus Christy Texas, and the Total Arts Gallery in Taos, New Mexico. To see his works, list of museum shows, books and magazine articles go to www.dougdawsonartist.com.

February meeting notes by Roger Snyder. TXPS Secretary

2012-02-16T09:40:00.000-08:00

Texas Pastel Society Minutes

February 4, 2012

After the business meeting (see minutes below), Mary introduced Janis Langley, a pastelist from Austin. Janis has been painting portraits for the past 30 years. She brought along a commissioned portrait, as well as the portrait that won 2^nd place in the TPS 2011 show.
After relating an interesting and informative biography, she proceeded to demonstrate how she painted the commissioned child’s portrait. The demonstration was done on a blue-gray tinted sheet of Canson. Besides showing how the portrait was developed, Janis pointed out many of the techniques she had learned, such as typical measurements, best methods of lighting, the use of cool and warm colors, working from hard to soft and from dark to light, as well as her selection of pastels.
The meeting was opened by our President, Mary C. Lopez with an introduction of the officers for 2012.
Membership cards will be mailed out next week. Please send dues and application to The Texas Pastel Society, c/o Maria Aguirre, Membership Chair, 7318 Silent Hills, San Antonio, Texas 78250
Mary then reviewed the status of the Society’s program for 2012.
January – A tour of the McNay’s exhibit of the Influence of Japanese Art on European Art was enjoyed by all.
February – A portrait demonstration by Janis Langley (see above).
March – A Paint Out and demonstration with Kraig Kiedrowski will be held on the 22^nd. It will take place at either the Antique Rose Emporium or the Botanical Gardens. The consensus of the group appeared to favor the Emporium as less expensive and less crowded.
April – There will be an exhibit for all members at the Tobin Library. Paintings will be accepted on April 1^st and 2^nd from 10 to 12. The exhibit will run until May 5^th. There will also be an opportunity to participate in running a workshop for children and adults at the library.
May/June – Planning on a Paint In.
September – Members have been invited to participate in the Comfort Art Fair. This includes the opportunity to hang art for sale and to participate in a sidewalk demonstration.
October – Our National Juried Show starting October 19th. This year it will be held at Art, Inc and will be judged by Doug Dawson. Doug will also give a demo for members on either the 16^th or 17^th. He will also lead a workshop on the 15^th thru the 17^th (Monday thru Wednesday). Cost is $325 for members. $100 required to hold a space. Spaces available will depend upon the venue, but could be limited to 14 or 15 participants. Sign up has already started.
More details on the monthly meetings, other demonstrations, and the opportunities described above will be reported as they develope. Please return to the Society Blog often.

Janis Langley Portrait demo at February 4th meeting

2012-01-16T07:17:00.000-08:00

Jose Ascencion de Gasca

Well-known pastelist, Janis Langley from Austin, will do a portrait demo at the Saturday, February 4th general meeting. Meeting at the Tobin Library starts a little after 10 a.m. and runs through 12 noon. Janis received an Honorable Mention for her beautiful portrait of Jose Ascencion de Gasca at the TXPS 2011 Regional Juried Exhibition. The Tobin is located one half mile inside Loop 410 at 4134 Harry Wurzbach next to Garner Middle School. Plenty of parking and no meeting fee!

We may also pay our 2012 dues at the meeting or pick up our member card if paid up.

Then let's make it a day full of art by visiting the Greenhouse Gallery at 6496 N. New Braunfels. The Greenhouse Gallery Celebration starts with a Champagne reception on Friday, February 3rd. RSVP the Greenhouse Gallery at 828-6491 if you plan to attend the reception.

www.greenhousegallery.com

Let's share ideas and get inspired!

Art Night at the McNay

2011-12-29T06:12:00.000-08:00

Dear Artists,

Join us Thursday, January 5th, for Art Night at the McNay

Schedule is as follows:
Early dinner at 4 p.m. at Twin Sisters(RSVP Irena-Taylor@satx.rr.com)
McNay Exhibit "The Orient Expressed" - self-guided tour at 5:30 p.m. $5 fee
Free lecture at 6:30 p.m.
Finally an opera singer doing a piece from "Madame Butterfly"

The Orient Expressed: Japan’s Influence on Western Art, 1854-1918

October 5, 2011 | January 15, 2012

The Orient Expressed focuses on the worldwide phenomenon known as Japonisme, which permeated art and culture in the West in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Organized by the Mississippi Museum of Art and curated by Gabriel P. Weisberg, PhD, professor of art history at the University of Minnesota, this traveling exhibition brings more than 150 objects, including ceramics, drawings, glass, paintings, prints, and silver, to San Antonio, demonstrating the pervasive fascination with Japanese style.

For more information on this exhibit go to www.mcnayart.org

November Meeting Notes

2011-12-29T05:43:00.000-08:00

Members at our November general meeting accepted a by-law change and Executive Board . New board is made up of the following volunteers:

President: Mary Campos Lopez
Vice-president: Irene Taylor
Secretary: Roger Snyder
Treasurer: Charles Krause

We also had a wonderful Clouds and Sky demo by Regina Calton Burchett from Manchaca, Texas. Regina likes to work on Pastelboard and uses an alcohol wash after sketching and applying the first layer of pastel. She demonstrated different kinds of clouds and then worked on a painting in progress. It was a very well thought out demo, taking the time to explain each step and answer our questions.

showing us her palette

applying the alcohol wash

using a piece of plastic

Regina's palette

using a Terry Ludwig pastel

Thanks, Regina, for a great demo!

Regina Calton Burchett to demo at the November 19th meeting

2011-10-08T16:37:00.000-07:00

Raining Up by the Barn at Creedmoor

Kerrville Clouds

Regina Calton Burchett from Manchaca, Texas will do a Skies and Clouds demo at our November meeting. Regina received a 2nd Place in Landscape for her "Kerrville Clouds" at the Texas Pastel Society Juried Regional Exhibition this year. More of her stunning sky paintings can be seen at www.fallshadows.com/sky_paintings.html .

November meeting will take place on Nov. 19, 10-12noon at the Tobin Library, 4134 Harry Wurzbach, in San Antonio.

October General Meeting notes

2011-10-08T16:16:00.000-07:00

At the October general meeting the following nominations and a By-Law change were presented to the members.

Nominations for the Executive Board

President - Mary C. Lopez

Vice-President- Irene Taylor

Secretary - Roger Snyder

Treasurer - Charles Krause

By-Law Amendment

Article 7, Sec 2 reads : Executive Board officers will serve for a two year term and may be re-elected for another two year term.

Proposed By-Law change to Article 7 Sec. 2: Executive Board officers will serve for a two year term and may be re-elected for another two year term with an option to be elected twice more for an additional two year terms.

Article 12 reads:

Members will be notified of a vote for a by-law change 30 days in advance. Any By-Law changes are voted on by the general membership present at a meeting.

Article 10 reads: Elections by members only will be by written ballot at the November general meeting.

After a brief meeting, the members enjoyed refreshments and learned how each artist got started in the arts. A very enjoyable evening. The Tobin Library staff and library visitors were also invited to join us for refreshments. They happily accepted the invite telling us how much they were enjoying the artwork.

NOTE! Our November meeting will NOT be on first Tuesday. It will take place on Saturday, Nov. 19th, 10 -12noon at the Tobin Library. Regina Calton Burchett will do a Skies and Clouds demo for us. Regina received a 2nd Place in Landscape for "Kerrville Clouds" at our Regional Juried Exhibition.

September General Meeting

2011-09-07T19:13:00.000-07:00

We had "Meet An Artist Night" yesterday and it was truly fascinating. Guest speakers Bob Franklin and Irene Taylor shared how they got started as artists, what inspires them and gave us tricks of the trade.

Bob started in the 90's to work hard at being an artist when he realized how much he enjoyed it, relieving stress at the same time. Bob is represented by the Art , Inc. Gallery in San Antonio among others.

Irene has been pursuing her dreams for the last 15 years always striving to express her inner thoughts and emotions while teaching others at the Coppini and in private classes. One of her paintings was recently published in the TASTE magazine.

Thank you Irene and Bob for a great evening!

Members were reminded we will have nominations at the October meeting and elections in November.

A call for volunteers was made to fill the Executive Secretary position and other positions.

Thanks to the following members for volunteering their time to fill these needed positions:
Cindy Morawski- Venue/ Exhibitions Chair
Charles Krause- Treasurer

Call for member artists-Texas Pastel Society Fall Exhibition
The Tobin Branch Library
October 4th - Nov. 13th
Opening reception on first Tuesday, Oct. 4th., 5:30-7:30 p.m.
Sign up at texaspastelsociety@yahoo.com by Monday, Sept. 26th. Limit 12 artists. 2 medium to large size paintings each. Nothing over 18x24. Must be ready to hang, firmly wired, no sawtooth hangers. No objectionable subject matter. Tags will have your name, title , and phone number. Any sales will be between artist and client. Art need not be for sale. No fee or commission to be paid.

2012 Events:

A Paint-Out with Kraig Kiedrowski in early spring at the Botanical Gardens in San Antonio. This will include a demo by Kraig and a critique.

Doug Dawson Studio Landscape 3 day workshop

Monday - Wednesday, Oct. 15-17, 2012. Will include an evening demo for the members.

National Juried Show , Oct. 19-Nov. 4th, 2012 at the Art, Inc. Gallery on San Pedro.
Juror will be Doug Dawson from Colorado.

Join us on first Tuesday, Oct. 4th for our next meeting/opening reception at the Tobin Library.

IAPS Convention Review by Rita Kirkman

2011-07-01T13:50:00.000-07:00

Rita represented the Texas Pastel Society at the IAPS Convention in Albuquerque. Here are a few excerpts from her fascinating review. To read it in its entirety , go to ritakirkmanjournal.blogspot.com. This is a MUST read!
Travel Day

Well, another IAPS (International Association of Pastel Societies) Convention has come and gone. It's already been three weeks though it feels like just yesterday. I was privileged to be asked by Mary Lopez, president of the Texas Pastel Society, to be her rep for TxPS and to let her know how it all went. So here I am at another airport on my way to Williamsburg, VA (another story) getting the beginnings of this recollection on paper, and feeling the deja vu of my trip to Albuquerque.

Sandia Mountains

It was my second IAPS convention, but four years since my first one in '07. I had registered the very moment I received the email last fall, and was determined to make up for missing '09 by scheduling a full week, including pre- and post-convention workshops! I flew in on Tuesday, May 31. the weather was fine and I was as excited as a child to have a window seat. I love flying!

The Exhibits
Wednesday evening was the opening reception for the 18th Juried Exhibition and the First Master Circle Exhibition, both shown conveniently in conjunction with the 9th biennial convention.
(On the shuttle to the reception, Jeannette and I were each surprised and pleased to be recognized by one of the artists in the show, Tatijana Jacenkew, who had seen our works online. It was almost like being famous!)

The Hispanic Arts Gallery at the New Mexico State Fairgrounds, host to the IAPS exhibits this year, is spacious and beautiful, with various rooms that open into each other. The juried exhibit was in the large front area, separated from the MC exhibit by the Juror's Wall.
I was thrilled, of course, to see my work hanging on that juror's wall, right between Desond O'Hagan's and Liz Haywood-Sulivan's.

The IAPS exhibit was inspiring. Judge Liz Haywood-Sullivan declared it the finest collection of pastel works IAPS has ever shown. They had almost twice the submissions of previous exhibits.

The Pre-Convention Workshop
Wednesday and Thursday were the pre-convention workshops. If I could have split myself in two, I'd have taken both Richard McKinley's and Desmond O'Hagan's, but since I had to choose, I took Richard's. It was inspiring and fun as usual. His focus for this workshop was underpaintings.

He first showed us how using watercolor or oil to underpaint is really no different than washing pastel pigment into the paper with water or with mineral spirits. It's just pigment and medium after all. He then demonstrated the three underpaintings that we would learn during the workshop.

The Paint-Around

Thursday evening was the Paint-Around.

If you've never seen a Paint-Around, you're missing out on some excellent entertainment! 5 artists each begin a painting, then every 15 minutes they all rotate to the next easel. ..Yep, you can picture it! 90 minutes later they're all back at their original paintings, fixing - er, that is, finishing up the last deatils. All of the artists sign each painting. The 5 paintings are then auctioned off to benefit the IAPS/UCT scholarship fund.

(Richard McKinley was chosen by Maggie Price to be the auctioneer at Saturday's banquet. Richard - ever the jokester - relayed his call from Maggie. "She said 'We wanted a comedian and immediately I thought of you!'" He was amusing, and it was fun and he got good prices for all of them.)

The Candy Shoppe!
Friday morning, everyone's favorite part of the convention opened -- yes, the "Candy Shoppe"! I vowed before I went that there was really nothing I needed to buy, but I did succumb to a pack of Art Spectrum Pastelmat and a few of Jack Richeson's boards in various colors. But NO pastels! I was firm! ...At least until late Sunday, when I saw the 100 half-stick set of Schmincke at a special discount. ( ...Well, I have just about every brand made except for Schmincke and Roche, and my budget won't stretch to Roche yet...)

Anyway, for me the better part of the candy shop was the demos - and one in particular - Leslie B. DeMille had an easel in the My Art Tutor booth. Friday afternoon I caught him getting ready to start a portrait sketch with conte sticks on velour paper:

Amazing! This took him about 20 minutes.

The Margaret Dyer Seminar

My most memorable seminar of the weekend was Margaret Dyer's on Friday morning. She talked about her method of conducting figure (not portrait) commissions, and then showed us, with a live model, how she photographs her client. She brought her own lamp with a 250w tungsten bulb and set it up with a chair in the corner between the door to the hall, and another door to outside. Wonderful combinations of light! When she was done, she showed us her pics on a projector, then - best yet - gave all of us 15 minutes to photograph the model for a $5 tip!

Kim Lordier Hands-On Demo

After lunch I had a hands-on demo with Kim Lordier. The 'hands-on' demos were added to IAPS in '09. These demos focus on a specific concept involved in the painting process. Participants are not expected to create a finished work but instead concentrate on learning or improving one part of the process, all working from the same reference. The best part is all supplies are provided! (12 Terry Ludwig pastels, and more!)

Kim's demo was on atmospheric perspective. I really looked forward to this demo after hearing Richard McKinley's frequent praises of Kim's skill. Kim had this pre-prepared demo displayed as a visual guide along with the photo reference (at right): From the back of the room this looked like a detailed painting; only up close could one see how loose and unfinished it was! This really impressed upon me how the strength and power of a painting relies on accurate values and temperatures; it's not in the details!

She then showed us each step of the way and had us work along with her, building our values and temperatures to create convincing atmospheric perspective.

The President's Dinner

Friday evening was the President's Dinner. (Thank you, Mary, for referring me - the food was delicious, especially desert!) Friend and fellow artist Sonja Kever was also there representing the Austin Pastel Society. We sat with some ladies form the New England area and had some good conversation.
The main point made by IAPS President Maggie Price was that we will have the Hotel Albuquerque for the 2013 convention locked in at the current prices She made many other good points in favor of not moving the convention to another city, and convinced all of us that it had nothing to do with it being in her own back yard (lol!) (Peggy Breutigam paraphrases it very well HERE) One impressive point I remember is that the convention attendance this year nearly doubled from '09 and filled the entire hotel, overflowing to a nearby Best Western.

An important topic presented by IAPS V.P. Liz Haywood-Sullivan was on the ASTM-4236 and the development of a lightfastness standard for pastels.

Banquet Keynote Speaker and Presentation

I almost didn't go to the Saturday banquet, but decided to purchase a ticket when I found out they keep a few 'plates' in reserve for latecomers. I'm glad I did! Kate Hersey of Unison pastels gave the Keynote presentation and an inspiring slide show about the history and manufacturing process of these luscious pastels. Hand-made by less than a dozen employees, the 'factory' is a charming old stone coach house in Northumberland, England. In spite of the death of John Hersey, and various economic pressures, these pastels are still made to the same exacting standards as when they first came on the market in the early 1980's.
www.unisoncolour.co.uk

The End (Or The Beginning...)

There was so much to take in at IAPS '11 that by the end I felt overwhelmed, and vowed that next time I'll just pick one instructor and take all that they offer and leave the rest of the weekend for, well, resting.
...But probably I won't be able to resist scheduling just one more demo, ...then just one more seminar, ...and Oh, I won't want to miss that one!
...It's a lot like trying to resist those irresistible pastels themselves!

Until next time -- happy pastelling!

"I flew so high, the earth was round"

"Celebrate Texas" Regional Exhibition

2011-05-08T06:45:00.000-07:00

"Autumn's Echo" Best of Show by Richard Banh from Austin

Landscape Category

1st Place "Palo Duro Pleasure" Christine Armes

2nd Place "Kerrville Clouds" Regina Calton Burchett


Honorable Mention "Embracement" Richard Banh

Still Life/Floral Category

1st Place "Mission Door" Laura Tobin Cardenas

Honorable Mention "Girasol" Mary Campos Lopez

Animal/Wildlife Category

1st Place "Mockingbird" Susan Crawford Tracy

Honorable Mention "Leader of the Pack"Rita Kirkman

Portrait/Figure Category

1st Place "Little Miss Cryer" Rita Kirkman

Honorable Mention "Jose Asenscion de Gasca"Janis Langley

We had a wonderful reception! Our judge, Timothy Jones was very impressed with the quality of the show. In his own words, he had a tough time deciding. He was present and handed out the awards, then spoke on what drew him to a particular painting. It was a learning experience for all present.

Being juried is an award in itself. Each artist will receive the Texas Pastel Society Award for Excellence at the end of the show.

Let's continue to invite our contacts to see this great exhibition which will run through June 18th at the Central Library Gallery, 600 Soledad St.

The following cash awards were given out:(in the smaller categories only a 1st place and an Honorable Mention were given out.)

Still Life/Floral
1st Place - Mission Door by Laura T. Cardenas-$100 cash award
Honorable Mention - Girasol by Mary Campos Lopez - ribbon

Animal/Wildlife
1st Place - Mockingbird by Susan Crawford Tracy - $100 cash award
Honorable Mention - Leader of the Pack - Rita Kirkman-ribbon

Portrait/Figure
1st. Place - Little Miss Cryer - Rita Kirkman - $100 cash award
Honorable Mention - Jose Ascension de Gasca - Janis Langley-ribbon

Landscape
1st Place - Palo Duro Pleasure -Christine Armes $100 cash award
2nd Place - Kerrville Clouds - Regina Calton Burchett $50 cash award
Honorable Mention - Embracement - Richard Bahn-ribbon

Best of Show- Autumn's Echo - Richard Bahn - $500 cash award

Congratulations to all the juried artists!

Special thanks to the volunteers that worked for over a year to put this show together.

We also want to thank The City of San Antonio and Mr. Andrew Gordon, Events Coordinator at the San Antonio Central Library who worked closely with us to make this event extra special.

"Celebrate Texas" Regional Juried Exhibition May 6 - June 18

2011-05-01T08:45:00.000-07:00


2010 National Best of Show The Gypsy Shawl by Eunice Hundley

Join us on Thursday, May 5th for the Opening Reception of our Juried Exhibition. Our speaker will be Timothy Jones, Assistant Professor at Northwest Vista College and Judge. Awards will be presented at 7 p.m.

Regional pastelists "Celebrate Texas" and its diversity in brilliant pastel. A one of a kind art show in south Texas.

The TXPS 2010 National Best of Show winning painting The Gypsy Shawl by Eunice Hundley will be at the reception.

Parking is available, with the first hour being free with a stamped ticket.

Show dates are May 6 - June 18. Show hours are Mon-Thurs: 9-9p.m., Fri & Sat: 9-5p.m., Sun 11a.m.-5p.m.

Member News

2011-03-25T15:00:00.000-07:00

Rita Kirkman is offering a one day portrait workshop on April 23rd. For details see Area Pastel Workshop section at the end of the blog.

Jeannette Cuevas
"I would like to invite our members and friends to come by Cappy's Restaurant at 5011 Broadway in San Antonio and see the new body of work I have just completed. This show will be going up tomorrow (Saturday, March 26) and will run until Friday, June 3. As you may know my work to this point has been primarily western in nature. However, for this show I have allowed myself to "explore", not only subject matter but also surfaces and some painting techniques. The one thing I felt these paintings did have in common was the light and it's influence on each image, hence the title of my exhibit,"Exploring the Light". I hope you will stop by to see these new pieces and also to enjoy the wonderful cuisine at Cappy's.

The restaurant has informed me that you are not required to eat there in order to view the exhibit. A good time to go is 15 minutes before they open either in the morning or afternoon. It is quieter and fewer people at that time.

Thank you, hope you will stop by." - Jeannette

April Meeting

2011-03-23T07:17:00.000-07:00

Join us on first Tuesday, April 5th, at the Greenhouse Gallery of Fine Art at 6496 N. New Braunfels in San Antonio. This is just past the McNay Art Museum. We will be seeing their Salon International 2011, a juried exhibition of oil paintings. The Exhibition Judge is Daniel Greene. Meeting time is 4 p.m. www.greenhousegallery.com

Member News

2011-03-15T16:04:00.000-07:00

Bob Franklin will have 29 paintings in a one man show, Churches and Charreadas, at Art Incorporated, 9401 San Pedro, San Antonio. The show runs March 26 - April 26 with the reception on Saturday the 26th, 6 - 8 p.m.
Bob will be on hand to discuss his contemporary cultural art. Working in pastels with the look of oils, using light and shadows, all of his subjects have inspired Bob to create a slice of life that is long to be remembered. R.S.V.P. on the opening reception to automatically be entered in a drawing for an original pastel by Bob. R.S.V.P.: sales@artincorporated.com by March 16th.
See Bob's paintings at www.bobfranklinart.com .

Cindy Morawski :

I was accepted into the juried (ZAPP) Corpus Christi's Festival of the Arts this weekend, March 25 through 27, 2011. I'll have my originals located in a booth, and plan on a lecture about the History of Pastels.
I plan on participation in two outdoor art shows in April: Starving Artist Show, April 2 and 3 at SAHA Park, plus, the Fiesta Art Show at Alamo Plaza on April 9 and 10 with the Randolph Art League.

Member News

2011-03-08T12:06:00.000-08:00

Cathy Geib sends the following:
" Mark your calendar for the Boerne Parade of Art and Taste of Boerne, It will be April 8 through the 10. I will be at the Rusty Bucket on Main Street. Hope you can come by and have some wine and tastes with me!"

Laura Cardenas extends an invitation for Thursday, March 17th at 5 p.m.:
" I will be having a small show at a local wine bar. It is Ciao Lavanderia Wine Bar at 226 E. Olmos. I will have some of my paintings and the owners will serve appetizers and everyone can purchase their drinks. The paintings will be up for a month."

Mary Claire Herman has a Solo Art Show in Clovis, New Mexico!

4th Annual All Member Show Reception

2011-03-05T16:02:00.000-08:00

Irene Taylor pastel painting demonstration

Irene's demo

People's Choice Award, Lucy Jauregui

Irene and new member Modrea

We had a good turnout for our 4th Annual All Member Reception and received great comments from the staff of the Carver who are very pleased to have such a beautiful and bright show. Twelve members are participating including new member, Robert Rhodes from Rockport, Texas.

Irene Taylor painted a ballerina, which was very appropriate as we had real ballerinas see the show. Irene sold her demo at the reception! Congrats!

The exhibit will run through March 15th and the lobby is open daily.

Richard Kramer and his flamenco ladies

February meeting and Mini - Workshop with Libby Peters Review

2011-03-05T15:15:00.000-08:00

An inspired time was had by all members attending the February 26th meeting at New Braunfels. Our demo artist, Libby Peters, PSA, from Dripping Springs had lots to share and we all enjoyed her communication skills. The afternoon workshop allowed us to gain valuable insight into her unique style. Ever ready to answer questions and take the time to demonstrate, Libby helped us all take a step forward. Thanks, Libby!

Member News

2011-02-25T07:01:00.000-08:00

Rita Kirkman will be giving a one day "Exploring Pastel" workshop in Rockdale, Texas on Friday, March 4th. Contact www.rockdalechamber.com to sign up or 512-446-2030. To contact Rita, rita@ritakirkman.com

Mary Johnson will be giving a" Beginning Pastel" Class for 4 weeks only on Saturdays, 1 - 3 p.m. at the Casa de Linda Studio in New Braunfels, Tx. Contact Mary at johnson3059@sbcglobal.net.

Mary McIntosh sends the following news:

"This coming year 3 nationally known pastelists will be teaching workshops here in New Braunfels at my studio, Farmers Road Artists Workshops."

BOB ROHM, March 2,3,4,5 Fee $400. Plein Air.

MICHAEL CHESLEY JOHNSON, Oct 14,15,16 Fee $375. Plein Air.

TERRY LUDWIG, Aug. 26,27,28 Fee $350. Studio Costumed Models.

More information can be found at www.farmersroadartistsworkshops.com

830-625-0132

Bright Shawl Reception

2011-02-24T09:35:00.000-08:00

TXPS has art on exhibit by eleven members at the Bright Shawl Gallery, 819 Augusta in San Antonio.

An opening reception was held on Thursday, February 17th and many came by to admire and show support for the exhibiting artists.

The show will run through May 6th. We can enjoy lunch at the Bright Shawl under beautiful pastel art!

Member News

2011-02-02T13:19:00.000-08:00

EXHIBIT AT THE BRIGHT SHAWL
Members Christine Armes, Cathy Geib, Eunice Hundley, Marion Field Koch, Richard Kramer, Janis Langley, Mary Campos Lopez, Cindy Morawski, Daniel Oxford, Georgia Stok and Irene Taylor will have artwork at the Bright Shawl, 819 Augusta St. in San Antonio,www.bright-shawl.com. Exhibit dates are Saturday, Feb. 12 th through Friday, May 6th. Reception on Thursday, Feb. 17, 6-8:30 p.m. Open daily.

RITA KIRKMAN

Rita will be doing quick portrait sketches and show her fine art pastel paintings at the San Antonio Rodeo, Feb. 3-20. She will be at the Freeman Coliseum, Booth 400. To read more of Rita's art activities go to ritakirkman.blogspot.com

Regional Juried Exhibition/Competition Prospectus and Entry Form

2011-01-17T13:34:00.000-08:00

Texas Pastel Society

"Celebrate Texas"

Regional Juried Competition/Exhibition Prospectus and Entry Form

May 6 - June 18, 2011

San Antonio Central Library Gallery

Tim Jones, Judge
Assistant Professor/Fine Arts Coordinator - Northwest Vista College

Best of Show $500
and other cash awards

Categories:
Landscape, Portrait / Figure,
Still Life/Floral, Animal/Wildlife

Eligibility
Open to all Texas artists working in the soft pastel medium.
All work must reflect the theme "Celebrate Texas".
All work must be at least 80% soft pastel. Hard pastels are considered soft pastel.
NO OIL PASTELS.
No objectionable content.
Entries must be original from concept to completion. A copy of another artist's work, work based on photos not taken by the artist, work done under the guidance of an instructor or in a classroom setting is not eligible.
Paintings must have been completed no earlier than January 2009.
Work must not have been previously exhibited in any TXPS Juried show or received a major award from TXPS or another art group.
Size: Image must not exceed 36"X48". Any artwork 24"x36" or larger MUST be framed using Plexiglass or it will not be hung.
Work must be firmly framed, under glass or Plexi-Glass, with screw eyes and strong wire, ready to hang. No sawtooth hangers.
Artwork need not be for sale. Any sales will be strictly between artist and client; TXPS will only provide artist's contact information.
Artwork must remain for the duration of the show – through Saturday, June 18th.

Entry Procedure
Entry form, fee, and digital images must be received no later than
Friday, March 25 , 2011

1.   Mail completed entry form and entry fee to TXPS.
·   Each artist may submit up to three (3) entries.
·   TXPS member entry fee - $25
·   Non-member entry fee - $35
    Fees are non-refundable.

2.   Submit digital images - by email only. No CDs.
·   File format must be JPG.
·   File size not to exceed 1.8 MB; no more than 2000 pixels height or width
            TXPS will not resize.
·   Crop image to exclude frame and/or mat.
·   Digital images must accurately represent your work.
·   File should be saved as: last name of artist-title.jpg.
            Example: Lopez-Canyon Twilight Blue.jpg
·   Send one image per email to: texaspastelsociety@yahoo.com.
·   Email should also include artist name, phone #, title, image size (HxW),
             and category.
            TXPS reserves the right to re-categorize an entry.
·   Notification of accepted works via email by Monday, April 11, 2011.

Receiving Day
Entries must be hand-delivered, ready to hang. NO EXCEPTIONS.
·   Tuesday, May 3 , 2011, 12 noon- 7 p.m.
·   San Antonio Central Library Gallery
·   600 Soledad St., San Antonio, Texas

Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony
·   Thursday, May 5, 2011, 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.
·   Awards 7:00 p.m.
·   San Antonio Central Library Gallery, 600 Soledad St., San Antonio, Texas
·   Gallery hours: Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri & Sat, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.,
            Sun 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Removal
·   Show runs through Saturday, June 18th.
·   Art MUST be picked up on Sunday, June 19, 12 noon - 4 p.m.
            Artwork not picked up on that date will be removed from the gallery and
            assessed a $5 per day storage fee.

www.texaspastelsociety.com     www.texaspastelsociety.blogspot.com
Contact: Mary Campos Lopez   email:   texaspastelsociety@yahoo.com

ENTRY FORM
Texas Pastel Society - "Celebrate Texas"
2011 Regional Juried Competition/Exhibition

Please print legibly                Form must be received by Friday, March 25, 2011.

Artist_______________________________________________________

Address_____________________________________________________

City________________________________________________________

State______________________Zip_____________

Phone(____)_________________or______________________________

Email_______________________________________________________

Categories: Landscape, Portrait/ Figure, Still life/Floral, Animal/Wildlife

Entry Title 1________________________________________________________

Image size (HxW)________Price_________Category_______________

Entry Title 2_________________________________________________________

Image size(HxW)________Price_________Category_______________

Entry Title 3_________________________________________________________

Image size( HxW)________Price_________Category_______________

Publicity
TXPS will reserve the right to use an image of the artwork for promotional purposes and for viewing on the TXPS website for a period of two years from the date on the entry form.

Hold Harmless Agreement
While all art will receive due care in handling and display, the Texas Pastel Society, San Antonio Central Library, and all connected with this exhibition will not be responsible for loss or damage of any artwork. Insurance coverage is the responsibility of the individual artist.

I have read and agree to all the conditions in the prospectus and the entry form. Entry forms will not be accepted without a signature.

X_____________________________________________Date__________

Check #________   $25 - TXPS members, $35 - non-members.

Mail to: Texas Pastel Society, P.O. Box 37066, San Antonio, Texas 78237-9998

Member News

2011-01-17T08:03:00.000-08:00

From Jeannette Cuevas -

"Just received your email notification about the International Art Search On Line Exhibit and I wanted to share my exciting news that my work "Sweet Solitude" was chosen as one of the Top 8 awards and my painting "Biscuits from Scratch" was chosen as one of the Top 100 paintings in the competition. I had just looked at the show on-line and I wanted to share!" Go to www.internationalartsearch.com to view the exhibit.

From Sue Wiley -

"This summer, I had the wonderful opportunity to have four of my paintings accepted into two shows in France, hosted by the prestigious Société des Pastellistes de France, the oldest pastel society in the world. I attended the opening ceremonies in July in Saint Florent le Vieil, near Nantes, and have been painting since my return from photographs taken on my trip. You can see some of these paintings on my blog." www.suewiley.blogspot.com

Read about Sue's exciting trip and the Texas Pastel Society's connection in the December issue of the Pastel Journal, pg.10.

Congratulations! You inspire us!

January meeting notes

2011-01-13T11:51:00.000-08:00

The TXPS year got off to a great start with the Tuesday , January 4th meeting. The superb demo by Pauline Howard held our interest. She worked on a Canson pastel paper layering color with pastel pencil and soft pastels, placing complementary colors next to each other. The chosen subject helps her decide what color paper to use. Children at play is a favorite topic. Pauline's distinctive style was fascinating to watch and enjoyed by all.

Dues were also turned in and if you haven't sent them in, please do so as soon as possible.

Dues are just $30 for the year. You can mail your check made out to Texas Pastel Society, P.O.Box 37066, San Antonio, Tx, 78237-9998.

The Prospectus for the 4th Annual All Member Show and the Juried Regional Show were available at the meeting. Each member will be emailed a copy of each.

If you are a non-member and would like to participate in the Juried Regional Show, request a copy of the Prospectus at texaspastelsociety@yahoo.com.

Another TXPS activity was the visit to the Landscapes in the age of Impressionism exhibition at the McNay on Thursday, January 6th. Ten art lovers listened attentively to the docent, Barbara, as she led us through the gallery giving insights into the artist's creations. A nice supper at La Fonda followed the outing where conversations turned to the arts.

The next TXPS meeting will take place Saturday, February 5th, at 10 a.m. at the New Braunfels Art League upstairs classroom in New Braunfels. The meeting/demo starts off the day long mini-workshop by Libby Peters. For info on this great day see the post, Libby Peters Mini- Workshop and sign up for it as soon as possible at texaspastelsociety@yahoo.com. Stay inspired!

Libby Peters Portrait Mini-Workshop- RESCHEDULED!

2011-01-13T10:22:00.000-08:00

Mark your calendars for Saturday, February 26th at 10 a.m.(MOVED FROM FEB. 5TH) That's the start of an inspiring day for TXPS members. Not only will we see a great portrait demonstration by Libby Peters, PSA, but we will have the opportunity to inspire others with our attendance and ideas.

Sign up now for this outstanding workshop. The workshop will start with Libby doing a portrait demo in the morning from a photo reference projected on a screen. The workshop begins at 12:30. Cost for members is just $40 and for non-members $50. Meeting demo fee for those just attending the demo is $5. Contact the Texas Pastel Society to sign up for the workshop at texaspastelsociety@yahoo.com.

Libby Peters, PSA is a must see. She is an excellent instructor and communicator. To see her portraits, go to http://www.libbypeters.com/ The demo/workshop will take place at the New Braunfels Art League upstairs classroom, on San Antonio St. in New Braunfels, Tx.

Dianne Reeves

2010-12-28T16:01:00.000-08:00

Our friend and fellow pastelist has passed on. Many of us know she had fought a long battle but her strength and determination are an inspiration to all of us.

Dianne, a Charter Member of the Texas Pastel Society, shared her ideas and knowledge with fellow pastelists inspiring us with her beautiful pastel paintings. Even though her health was deteriorating, she was ever ready to pick up new ideas, participating as much as she could in shows and paint outs.

Her ready smile and positive attitude will be missed.

Dianne at the TXPS Fall Art Show at Windcrest

Dianne at the Steven Napper Workshop

Having fun at the Napper workshop August 2009

The funeral service is set for Friday, December 31st at 10:30 a.m. at the Zoeller Funeral Home, 615 Landa in New Braunfels. There will be a reception at the New Braunfels Art League in New Braunfels at 11:30 a.m.
According to Mary Johnson, a friend of many years, Dianne asked that instead of flowers donations could be made to the Hope Hospice or the New Braunfels Art League in New Braunfels.

The Texas Pastel Society wishes to extend our deepest sympathy to the family of our friend, Dianne.

Remembrances:
I went to the New Braunfels newspaper and from there read about her beautiful and inspiring life on the Zoeller Funeral Home site. The arts really nourish so many of our souls. Dianne and I were born in the same year. I wish I'd gotten to know her.
Thanks for the info. My thoughts are with her family. Kay Brooks

I remember Dianne's beautiful artwork and gentle ways. I enjoyed sharing our past pastel painting event at the Steves Homestead and lunch at the Guenther House. I last saw Dianne with Sheila Orr at the Buda Fine Art Festival in early October. I will miss her, and I'd like to extend my sympathy to her family and friends.Cindy Morawski
I shared pastel portrait class with her and many workshops including the latest,kathleen cook's in october. She was always smiling, offering encouraging words to me about my art, and her art was always so wonderful. I will miss her. janette hastings

Dianne has been a constant example of how to live – getting the most joy out of each day & doing all one can to take care of oneself! We traveled to New Mexico a couple years ago – it was a wonderful trip and she drove! We were good travel buddies-I have some health issues (not nearly as serious as hers) and we’d both wear out at about the same time. She was such a smart, creative lady and my life is definitely richer for having known her!

Sheila Orr-New Braunfels

Let's get inspired and start 2011 with a bang!

2010-12-18T19:44:00.000-08:00

TXPS has programmed two great activities during the first week of January to get our inspiration going!

January 4th Meeting, first Tuesday, at 5:30 p.m. at the Tobin Library, 4134 Harry Wurzbach, next to Garner Middle School, just a short distance from Loop 410. We won't want to miss the demo by Pauline Howard. To see this very accomplished pastelist's work and bio, go to www.pmhoward.com and also the Hunt Gallery website, www.huntgallery.net/pauline_howard.htm.
We can also pay our dues, pick up the prospectus for the 4th Annual All Member Show and the Juried Regional Exhibition/Competition, and sign up/pay for the Libby Peters Portrait Mini-Workshop in February!

January 6th, first Thursday, at 5 p.m. at the McNay Art Museum to see the Landscapes from the Age of Impressionism Exhibit, www.mcnayart.org. We will have a docent if we have 6 or more. The museum charge is just $5 instead of the regular price of $13. RSVP please if you plan on joining us. We can also all go to dinner afterwards at La Fonda. Please RSVP if this interests you so we can make reservations. Please RSVP on the McNay visit and the dinner by Monday, January 3rd. The show ends on January 16th, so it's a great opportunity to see it.

February 5, Saturday, at 10 a.m. Libby Peters Portrait Mini-workshop day. Libby will do a demo in the morning followed by the workshop at 12:30 p.m. She will provide a portrait reference photo which will also be projected on a screen. To see Libby's beautiful portraits, go to www.libbypeters.com
Price: $40 for members, includes demo
$50 for non-members, includes demo
There is a $5 meeting fee for those NOT taking the workshop.
Meeting and workshop to be held at the New Braunfels Art League, upstairs classroom, New Braunfels, Tx.
Please send in your fee ASAP to hold your spot, to the Texas Pastel Society, P.O.Box 37066, San Antonio, Tx. 78237-9998, Fee is non-refundable. Maximum 14.

The next post will give you news on our 2011 art shows.

Shared Ideas=Inspiration!

The Year in Review - Flattmann Workshop, Mini-Workshops, and Shows

2010-12-15T14:00:00.000-08:00

Welcome back!
Highlights of our society year were the Alan Flattmann Cityscape Workshop, the mini-workshops and our two art shows.

Master Pastelist Alan Flattmann from Louisiana shared so much of his knowledge during the 3 day cityscape workshop in April. We painted on the beautiful San Antonio Riverwalk and put into practice what we learned back at the studio. We were surprised at his use of fixative but could see the beautiful results in his style of pastel painting. Alan was also the juror for our National Exhibition/Competition.

Our National Juried Exhibition/Competition was a big endeavor and with Alan Flattmann's great selections, turned out to be a fabulous show! The month-long show was held at the New Braunfels Art League's Elaine Felder Gallery and had very positive feedback on the show. Best of Show went to our fellow member Eunice Hundley. All had a great time at the reception as we were privileged to have Alan back to do the final judging, present the awards and say words of encouragement to the artists. Our many volunteers helped make this show one of a kind.

In May, we held our 3rd Annual All Member Show at the Carver Theatre, a beautiful venue. The month-long exhibition was seen by hundreds attending the wonderful shows at the Carver. A great way to get the word out into the community. Our All Member Show was given a lovely reception by the Carver.

We also had two great mini-workshops in 2010. One was given by Jeannette Cuevas in February and the other by Jodie Taylor in October. These were one day intense workshops which gave us new ideas and a boost of inspiration. Jeannette had us working on watercolor paper with a watercolor underpainting and Jodie helped us paint loosely with lots of color and encouraged us to get away from the reference photo.

As you can see, we had an inspiring year and 2011 promises more of the same! Members, let's not forget to send in our dues. And if you're not a member yet, join us! For a complete review of the National Juried Show, go to www.texaspastelsociety.com under Shows.
Stay tuned for 2011 news, the prospectus for the 4th Annual All Member Show and the Regional Juried Show will soon be up. Happy painting!

Welcome!

2010-12-14T18:59:00.000-08:00

The Texas Pastel Society's motto is "Shared Ideas = Inspiration". Our new blog will help us stay inspired by sharing our art news with other members and all who visit us. You will find the latest society news in its pages and you will be able to link to members.

We had many inspiring moments during the year, many great demos like how to paint clouds by Peggy Thompson, Jeannette Cuevas showed us how to do a watercolor underpainting, Master Pastelist Alan Flattmann from New Orleans uses fixative on his works, a framing demo by Laura Everett, Terry Smith's(PSA) use of an oil wash under her pastels, an academic drawing demo by Irene Taylor, a computer demo on how to work with digital images by Susan Tracy and a colorful landscape demo by Jodie Taylor. We even had a Night at the Movies with a Richard McKinley DVD.
Here are a few pics of our wonderful demos. Enjoy~

We will continue with our Year in Review with the next blog which will cover the Alan Flattmann Workshop and the National Juried Show. Links to some of our members are provided on this page. For a complete list of artists and their websites, go to www.texaspastelsociety.com .