Caprise Art Studio

A Wonderful Evening at the Arkansas Pastel Society Membership Show

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Friday evening’s Arkansas Pastel Society Membership Show at Thea Foundation Gallery in North Little Rock was another wonderful success. A heartfelt thank you to Thea Foundation for hosting our event and for their continued commitment to the arts. Their mission—to fill the gaps left by underfunded school budgets and help young people build confidence, self-worth, and perspective through creative expression—is one that truly deserves recognition and support.

The exhibition featured more than 60 pastel paintings created by over 20 talented artists. Throughout the evening, the gallery was filled with lively conversation, beautiful artwork, and visitors who took the time to appreciate the incredible diversity of styles and subjects on display.

One of the highlights of the evening was watching artists Clarence Cash, Susan Hurst, and Shirley Anderson demonstrate their painting process. Visitors had the opportunity to see a pastel painting evolve from a blank sheet of paper into a nearly completed work of art—a fascinating experience for both artists and non-artists alike.

The event also included a silent auction featuring two donated paintings, as well as a hands-on pastel station where guests could experiment with the medium for themselves. It was wonderful to see so many people discover the vibrant colors and unique qualities of pastel.

Visitors were invited to vote for their favorite painting in the People’s Choice Award. Congratulations to Virginia Miller for winning with Tribute, and to Georgia Chastain, whose beautiful painting Evening at Vino’s earned a close second-place finish.

I was pleased to exhibit two of my own paintings, Nothing Runs Like a Deere and The Last Load. It’s always rewarding to share my work alongside such a talented group of artists and to visit with fellow artists, collectors, and art enthusiasts throughout the evening.

Events like these are only possible because of the many volunteers who generously give their time and energy. Thank you to everyone who helped organize, set up, greet visitors, and make the evening run so smoothly. It was especially gratifying to see so many Arkansas Pastel Society members come together to celebrate art, creativity, and our growing pastel community.

The Biggest Pastel Party On The Planet!

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In 17 days The International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) is hosting the biggest pastel party on the planet in Albuquerque, NM from June 16th – 21st.

If you are in the area, the PastelWorld Exhibit is open to the public. This exhibit will showcase nearly 170 artist from across the globe! It is held at the Hotel Albuquerque on June 18th 9-9, June 19th 9-9, June 20th 9-6.

The exhibition showcases an incredible range of artwork, reflecting both the remarkable quality and the impressive diversity of the pieces selected for this show. It is my honor and privilege to serve as the Exhibition Chair for this event.

The event kicks off with the Convention Opening Reception and Artist Award Ceremony on June 17th.

There is so much happening at this event:

  • Dueling Artist Demos – is four sets of two artists painting from a shared
    reference. The audience can walk around each pair, watch them demonstrate and engage with the artists.
  • Artist Workshops and Demos
  • Autograph Book Signing- meet with and get autographs from your artist friends and hero’s!
  • The “Candy Store” – a vendor hall featuring world-class pastel
    brands, premium papers, tools, and accessories, many available to try before you buy. Enjoy live demos, product launches, artist meet-and-greets, and exclusive convention-only
    specials.
  • Fiesta Night – mix and mingle with pastel societies across the globe. Societies bring their A game with elaborate set ups and costumes.
  • Society Grants – IAPS is committed to promoting pastel and honoring those who have achieved notable accomplishments in the pastel medium. Every two years at the IAPS Biennial Convention, the final grant projects are presented at the Friday Night Fiesta.
  • The Honors Banquet – This is a chance to give special recognition to our legends, volunteers, Master Circle and Eminent Pastelists honorees. With a glimpse into the future.

Can you tell I’m excited about this event! I’m counting my sleeps until the day I leave. It will be a family event as my daughter will be coming as well!

A little about The International Association of Pastel Societies – The cornerstone of IAPS is our commitment to fostering connections and facilitating the exchange of ideas. We believe that by coming together, we can elevate the art of pastel and support each other in our artistic journeys. We are s dedicated to fostering a global community of pastel artists and advocating for this unique art form.

Teaching, Learning, and Moving out of the Comfort Zone

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Last year, I took a step into something new — teaching demos, workshops, and classes. I started small with an underpainting workshop alongside two fellow artists, then moved into teaching a class for LifeQuest of Arkansas. More recently, I was invited to give a demo followed by a mini workshop for the Ozark Pastel Society. Finally, next week I will do a demo for the Arkansas Pastel Society.

What I’ve discovered is that I absolutely love this new role. There’s a unique thrill in watching students explore, experiment, and create — seeing the sparks of discovery, the breakthroughs, and the joy on their faces when something clicks. Sharing ideas side by side, swapping stories, and learning new approaches live and up close creates an energy that just can’t be replicated through a screen. And it’s never one-sided. While students learn from me, I learn just as much from them. It’s a true win-win.

In each of my classes, I introduced techniques that many of the artists had never been exposed to – like my “rusty truck” process. They were brave in their experimentation, diving in wit curiosity and a willingness to try something news. More than once, they surprised themselves with restuls they never though possible. Of cours, there were also moments of frustration, but those frustrations created breakthroughs toward growth.

Teaching has become more than just a new experience for me; it’s a way to share the joy of art, to learn alongside others, and to celebrate the magic that happens when creativity is explored together.

One of the biggest honors came when I attended the Ozark Pastel Society non-juried art show and saw paintings by three of my workshop students on display. To witness their courage in putting their work out into the world — and knowing I had played a small part in their creative journey — was incredibly rewarding.

  • LifeQuest
  • OPS
  • Gallery Show

Tis the Holiday Season

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Wishing you all a Very Merry Christmas and joyous Holiday Season!

During all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, I wanted to take a moment to say how much I appreciate you all. Your supportive comments and encouragement throughout the year were much appreciated. Your curiosity in the process is energizing. Thank you for playing a role in my art journey.

Cheers to a blessed, happy, and healthy New Year.

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