caprise cooper

Join Me: Art Exhibitions, Paying It Forward, and Learning

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Wishing you all a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year! Recently, I reflected on the joys and gratitude of the past year, and now I’m excited to share what’s ahead. I’m looking forward to the serendipitous moments that unfold along the way, opportunities to gather with fellow artists, plenty of experimentation, and the lessons that come with it all.

  • I’m honored to serve a second term as President of the Arkansas Pastel Society (APS).
  • I’ll also continue paying it forward by teaching at LifeQuest of Arkansas.
  • I’m especially excited to once again exhibit alongside my daughter in Architecture • Rust • Treasures at the Argent Library in Little Rock, Arkansas.
    • Opening Reception Friday, March 20 at 5:00pm – all are welcome.
    • This occurs during the Friday Art Walk in the Argenta District.
  • I will have a few pieces on display at Arts on Main in Van Buren, AR hosted by the Ozark Pastel Society.
  • Architecture • Rust • Treasures show will then move to the Rialto Gallery in Morrilton, AR
    • Opening Reception Thursday, May 21 at 4:00pm – all are welcome
    • This occurs during the First Farmer’s Market of the year.
  • June brings the International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) convention — the biggest pastel gathering on the planet! Artists from around the world will meet in Albuquerque, New Mexico for a week filled with workshops, demonstrations, art supply vendors, and the Pastel World Art Show.
    • I’m both honored and a little nervous to serve as Exhibition Chair this year. The role includes planning, organizing, assembling a team, hanging the show, walking the exhibition with the judge, and so much more.
  • July is our APS Non-Juried Member Show.
  • November is our APS Juried Member Show and Workshop with artist Aaron Scheurr

In between it all, I’ll be spending time in the studio, with family and friends, and embracing new adventures.

Cheers to the New Year

Caprise

A Season of Joy and Gratitude

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This is the time of year to pause and reflect. As I look back on the past year, I think about my art journey and ask myself some important questions: What did I paint? Did I try anything new? Did my work grow? And did I give back to my art community?

Experimenting & Learning

Experimentation continues to be a driving force in my work. While painting on canvas works well and helps me use the many canvases I have on hand, I’ve realized it doesn’t always produce the results I’m looking for.

One big win this year was priming paper with micaceous iron oxide acrylic and terra cotta pastel ground. The warmth and texture are a beautiful complement to the green landscapes I love to create.

I also discovered that both metallic watercolors and metallic acrylics work well for the underpainting of the truck, adding depth and interest early in the process.

Perhaps one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is knowing when to step back. When I reach the end of a painting, it’s important to give it time to breathe and not rush to call it finished.

Giving Back

Giving back to the art community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my year.

  • Sharing what I’ve learned with members of the Ozark Pastel Society and the Arkansas Pastel Society
  • Teaching at LifeQuest of Arkansas
  • Serving as President of the Arkansas Pastel Society

Each of these experiences brings me great joy. I learn so much from the artists I interact with, and teaching and leadership continually reinforce and strengthen my own skills.

Accomplishments

Winning awards is certainly an acknowledgment that the work I’m producing is strong—in composition, value, color, ability to draw the viewer in, and whatever else a judge may see. I’ve learned to soak in those moments, appreciate it, and then continue painting.

Not every painting can be a winner. Some end up in the trash or painted over entirely—and that’s okay. We are always learning.

My Favorite Paintings This Year

I get the most joy from painting scenes that capture a fleeting moment—ones that stir emotion, spark a memory, and invite the viewer into a quiet conversation with the scene.

Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your support and encouragement are powerful motivators, and I’m grateful to share this path with you.

  • Holmes 440 Wrecker
  • Nothing Runs Like a Deer
  • Rubiginous
  • I Remember When It Was New
  • Cotton Gin

Close Up of Holmes 440 Wrecker to See Details

A Season of Honors: Celebrating Milestones in My Pastel Journey

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I’m still in awe of all the incredible things that have unfolded during the Arkansas Pastel Society’s 11th National Juried Show Opening on November 21st.

To begin with, “Holmes 440 Wrecker” received an Honorable Mention, judged by the esteemed Colette Odya Smith—an honor that deeply encourages me in my artistic journey.

I’m also thrilled to share that I have earned Signature Status with the Ozark Pastel Society (OPS). This distinction is awarded by accumulating 12 points across several achievements, including:

  • Participation in a non-juried OPS exhibition
  • Receiving awards in juried OPS exhibitions
  • Acceptance into Regional, National, or International multiple-media juried exhibitions
  • Awards in National or International multiple-media juried exhibitions
  • Acceptance into Regional, National, or International soft pastel juried exhibitions
  • Earning Signature Status with the Pastel Society of America (PSA) or Master Circle Status with IAPS
  • Receiving awards in Regional, National, or International soft pastel exhibitions
  • Serving as an OPS Officer, Board Member, or Committee Chair

Another exciting milestone: “Hibernating” was selected for the Pastel Society of America’s Landscape Member Showcase, a recognition that means so much to me.

And the momentum for “Holmes 440 Wrecker” hasn’t slowed down. This piece continues to play a pivotal role in my artistic growth, having also earned:

Awards

  • Honorable Mention – Dakota Pastel 1st Quarter Online

Juried Show Acceptances

  • International Association of Pastel Societies 2025 Spring Web Show – Open Division
  • 14th Annual PleinAir Salon
  • Pastel Society of Southern California 7th Annual Make Your Mark

I am truly humbled and grateful for everyone who supports my work. Now, it’s back to the studio—where I’ll continue to experiment, learn, and create with renewed inspiration.

  • Holmes 440 Wrecker
  • Hibernating

Giving Thanks

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I am deeply grateful for my family, friends, admirers, and clients who continue to support me throughout this journey. Art is my passion; it is a creative expression from my soul, a way to share how I see the world, to find beauty in the ordinary, and to evoke emotion through each painting. Your encouragement, curiosity, and thoughtful suggestions keep me inspired and help carry me through the challenging artistic moments.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving.

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

A Wonderful Evening at the 2025 OPS Member’s Exhibition

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What a beautiful night at the 2025 Ozark Pastel Society Members’ Exhibition, hosted at ACHE in Fort Smith! The staff did a phenomenal job with every detail—hanging the artwork, arranging delicious hors d’oeuvres and refreshments, setting the mood with music, and welcoming guests with the sparkle of Sissy’s Log Cabin Fine Jewelry.

The exhibition showcases 98 paintings by 26 talented OPS members, and I was honored to have four of my own pieces included.

It was also a wonderful surprise and a true honor to see paintings created during the Rust Workshop I taught for OPS artists now hanging in the exhibition. Watching those works come to life in class and then take their place in the gallery was deeply rewarding.

Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed watching live demos by Diana Harshbarger, Burneta Venosdel, and Susan Hurst, each creating beautiful pastel works while chatting with visitors. The hands-on pastel table, hosted by Jeanette Foreman and Julie Mayser, was a constant hub of creativity and fun. A big congratulations goes to our own Anne Parat, who won the $1,400 jewelry bracket from Sissy’s Log Cabin!

Special recognition also goes to our award winners:

  • People’s Choice Award: Randall Kronblad for On the Way to Evening
  • Julie Mayser’s Painting: Field of Dreams

If you haven’t seen the show yet, there’s still time! The exhibition will be open to the public through November 18 in the West Gallery at ACHE, 1000 Fianna Way, Fort Smith, AR (479-434-4400).

A heartfelt thank you to all the OPS members who worked so hard to make this event such a success.

  • Hands on Table
  • One of the paintings created in the workshop I taught.

Mark Your Calendar – I’m Showing at Arkansas College of Health Education

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I’m excited to share that I’ll be showing my work at the Arkansas College of Health and Education from September 11 through November 18. This is part of an exhibition by the Ozark Pastel Society.

Location: Arkansas College of Health Education (ACHE) Event Center 1000 Fianna Way, Fort Smith, AR
Hours: Meet the artists, Opening Reception, on Thursday, September 11, from 5:00pm – 7:00pm

This is a great chance to see four of my paintings — including a new piece, “Peace Maker”. I’ll be there to chat, answer questions, and connect with fellow art lovers. There is also an exclusive Trunk Show by Sissy’s Log Cabin.

If you’re in the area, I’d love for you to stop by and say hello. Bring a friend or two — it’s a great event for discovering local art and creativity.

Thanks, as always, for being part of my art journey. Hope to see you there!

Mont Marte – Metallic Acrylic Paint Review

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A big thank you to Leafy Cheung at Artmate for allowing me to test these paints!  If you’re looking for shimmer and shine in your work, Mont Marte’s metallic acrylics are a great choice, with something for everyone from beginners to experienced artists.

Overall Impressions

These paints have a consistently smooth texture, regardless of thickness, and can all be thinned with water for layering. Whether you’re just starting or are an experienced painter looking to add metallics to your toolkit, Mont Marte has options worth exploring. Ultimately, your choice will depend on the coverage and finish you’re aiming for.

 Discovery Range

  • Targeted for beginner painters
  • A step up in quality compared to other tub-style paints I’ve used
  • A solid entry point into metallics

Metallic Acrylic Colour – Signature Set

  • Great price point
  • Impressive pigment quality
  • Good coverage and color intensity
  • Fast drying with a classic metallic finish
  • I especially like that this set goes beyond the standard gold, silver, and bronze—you get a more expansive color palette
  • I’ll be using some of these shades (thinned with water) for the underpainting of a rusty old blue truck I’m currently working on

Gold & Silver Acrylic Paint Set – Signature

  • Also budget-friendly
  • Strong coverage and color intensity
  • Slightly thicker consistency than the general Metallic Acrylic Colour set
  • Although metallic, it has a subtle matte finish—the difference is more noticeable when side by side (see photos for comparison)

Metallic Acrylic Paint – Premium

  • Ideal for artists, designers, illustrators, and art students
  • Rich pigments, reflective finish, excellent coverage
  • Takes a little longer to dry—I used a blow dryer to speed things up
  • Significantly thicker consistency, which makes it feel more substantial when applying

Artiste Range

  • I did not test this one, but it’s Mont Marte’s top-tier metallic paint line—definitely on my radar for the future!

I use metallic acrylics primarily for underpainting rusty vintage vehicles—the shimmer peeks through and adds depth when I layer pastels on top. I’ll be using these new paints for the blue truck I’m currently working on.  If you’re looking to expand your toolkit with metallics, Mont Marte’s range offers great value and versatility. Whether you’re experimenting with effects or aiming for professional finishes, these paints are a worthy addition to your studio.

UPDATE: The Journey of Artistic Growth: A Year in Juried Shows and a Special Award

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As an artist, one of the most rewarding aspects of my practice is the opportunity to participate in juried shows—both online and in-person. Every year, I submit my work to a variety of competitions and exhibitions, where my art is evaluated alongside that of many talented peers. For me, simply being accepted into these shows is an honor in itself.

In some cases, these competitions feature over 100 artists and hundreds of pieces of artwork, all vying for attention. With so much talent on display, the process of being selected feels like an affirmation that my art is heading in the right direction. It reassures me that I am continuing to grow, both in my skills and in my ability to connect with viewers—whether that’s the show jurors or the audience who sees my work for the first time.

But, of course, not every submission results in an acceptance. And that’s okay. At the heart of my creative process is passion, and no rejection can ever take that away. For me, art is about self-expression, discovery, and the joy of creation. Whether or not my pieces are selected, the act of making art is always a rewarding experience in itself.

April 18 A Pinch Me Moment: Juried into IAPS 2025 Spring Web Show – 46th Open Division

I am thrilled to announce that my painting, Holmes 440 Wrecker, has been accepted into an International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) juried exhibition! For those unfamiliar, IAPS unites pastel societies worldwide to support and promote the fine art of pastels. Being selected for such a prestigious international show is both an honor and a significant milestone in my artistic journey.

While I did not receive an award in this particular exhibition, the acceptance itself is a testament to the quality and appeal of my work. Each acceptance into an IAPS juried exhibition earns one point toward the IAPS Master Circle designation. To achieve this honor, artists must accumulate five points, which can be earned through acceptances and awards in IAPS juried exhibitions.

Achieving Master Circle status is a significant accomplishment, and I am excited to be on the path toward this goal. While it may take time to accumulate the necessary points, each step forward is a rewarding experience that fuels my passion for pastel painting.

Thank you to IAPS for this incredible opportunity, and to all who have supported me along the way.

A Special Achievement: Honorable Mention in the Dakota Pastels First Quarter Competition

This year has been particularly exciting, as I received an Honorable Mention for my painting Holmes 440 Wrecker in the Dakota Pastels First Quarter Competition. It was a humbling experience to have my work recognized among so many other talented artists.

If you’d like to see the full show, you can explore all the incredible work on display https://www.dakotapastels.com/…/2025-First-Quarter…

Red Rock Pastel Society of Nevada – Yellow: Get Out of Dodge was juried into the show.

I will continue to update this posting as I obtain the results from future show entries.

Thank you always for your continued support.

Monte Art – Water Soluble Oil Pastels Review

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This was my first time using oil pastels, so I approached this new medium with curiosity and a bit of caution. As a soft pastel artist, my process typically involves creating an underpainting to guide the application of pastels, establishing lights, darks, and local colors. I was intrigued by the potential to incorporate the oil pastels into my underpainting process. Here’s how it went!

First Impressions & Application:

I began with a simple landscape underpainting on UArt 500 grit sanded paper. The initial application revealed some interesting characteristics:

• The colors were vibrant and laid down smoothly, I noticed that the pastels occasionally left small chunks. This could be due to the sanded surface or my unfamiliarity with the pressure needed for even application.

• The pastels blended effectively with a brush, as recommended on the box. I also experimented by overlapping colors in the sky.

Blending Experiment – Water vs. Alcohol:

According to the product instructions, water or other oil painting mediums could be used to wash the pastel. To compare the effects, I used water on the left side and alcohol on the right:

• Water was more effective in dissolving the pastels, creating a smoother and more fluid wash.

• Alcohol resulted in a slightly more textured effect, with some areas retaining more pigment.

Testing on Different Surfaces:

To see how the pastels would respond to a smoother surface, I repeated the process on Strathmore Mixed Media 300 Series paper. This yielded different results:

• The application was smoother, and the pastels blended a bit more easily.

• Both papers worked well, but I preferred the UArt sanded paper for the style of paintings I create, as it added more texture and depth to the underpainting.

Layering with Soft Pastels:

Once the underpaintings dried, I applied soft pastels over the top. The results were promising:

• The washes dried to muted tones, providing a subtle and harmonious base for the soft pastels.

• The soft pastels adhered nicely without any interference from the oil pastel underpainting.

Final Thoughts:

The water-soluble oil pastels offered a new way to create an underpainting. I will continue exploring this technique in future soft pastel paintings.  If you’re a soft pastel artist looking for a new way to approach underpaintings, these water-soluble oil pastels are worth a try.