pastel artist

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.

An Inspiring Week at the 2026 IAPS PastelWorld Convention

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The International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) PastelWorld Convention was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, from June 16–21, and what an incredible week it was! More than 650 artists representing 12 countries and every U.S. state gathered to celebrate the beauty and versatility of pastel. It was an inspiring opportunity to reconnect with friends, meet artists from around the world, learn from exceptional instructors, and immerse ourselves in everything pastel. There were so many activities that it is hard to pare them down:

  • PastelWorld Exhibition – One of the week’s most prestigious events was the PastelWorld Exhibition, featuring 175 outstanding artists from around the globe. I was deeply honored that my work was accepted into this internationally juried exhibition. The PastelWorld Exhibition would not have been possible without the dedication of our amazing volunteers. Nearly 60 volunteers gave their time and talents to help make the exhibition a success—from receiving and hanging artwork to greeting visitors, assisting artists, and helping with countless behind-the-scenes tasks.
  • Opening Reception & Awards Ceremony – The convention officially kicked off with the PastelWorld Opening Reception and Artist Awards Ceremony. Awards were presented in both the Open Division and the Master Circle Division, which recognizes artists who have earned Master Circle status through consistent acceptance into juried exhibitions and award recognition. Beyond Master Circle, artists may continue earning points toward the distinguished Eminent Pastelist designation.
  • Artist Autograph Book Signing – One of my favorite traditions is the Autograph Book Signing. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet artists whose work you’ve admired for years and collect signatures. I was especially honored to be included in this year’s book.
  • The “Candy Store” – The vendor hall—affectionately known as the “Candy Store.” Filled with the latest pastel brands, premium papers, tools, and accessories, it offers artists the chance to try new products before purchasing them. Needless to say, I found plenty of treasures and definitely put a dent in my wallet!
  • Fiesta Night – Fiesta Night is always a favorite event, bringing together pastel societies from around the globe for an evening of fellowship, conversation, and celebration. Each group represents their state our country in a unique way. There is even a costume contest.
  • Honors Banquet – The convention concluded with the Honors Banquet, where we celebrated our volunteers, Master Circle and Eminent Pastelists, and recognized those whose dedication has helped grow and strengthen the pastel community around the world.
  • Arkansas Proud – We had a wonderful group of artists in attendance from both the Arkansas Pastel Society and the Ozark Pastel Society. Our state had much to celebrate, with two members from each society receiving Honors Awards in the PastelWorld Exhibition. In addition, two members of the Arkansas Pastel Society are now serving on the IAPS Board, continuing Arkansas’s strong presence and leadership within the international pastel community.
  • A New Chapter – One of the most memorable moments of the convention was the announcement of the newly elected IAPS Board of Directors. I am deeply honored and humbled to have been elected Vice President of the International Association of Pastel Societies.

This is an opportunity for me to combine my business experience with my passion for art. Serving IAPS allows me to support pastel societies around the world while helping create opportunities for artists to learn, exhibit, and grow. I look forward to working alongside an outstanding board and our many dedicated volunteers as we continue to strengthen our global pastel community.

Before I wrap up, I want to give a special shout-out to my daughter. I cannot thank her enough for the countless hours and incredible effort she put into curating the PastelWorld Exhibition. She has an exceptional eye for arranging paintings in a way that not only creates a beautiful exhibition but also complements and showcases the individuality of each artist’s work. Throughout the week, we heard over and over again how beautifully the exhibition was hung.

In the Love of Art – Caprise

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.

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.

Architecture • Rust • Treasures

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Caprise Cooper and Evelyn Laurence

(A mother and daughter exhibition.)

Rialto Community Art Center Gallery, 215 E. Broadway St., Morrilton, AR

May 4, 2026 – May 31st, 2026

Two Opportunities to Meet the Artists:

May 7, 2026, at 6:00 – 7:00 pm before the Bryan White Show

May 21, 2026, at 4:00 – 8:00 pm during the Farmer’s Market

Architecture, Rust, Treasures (ART) is an exhibition that explores the wonders of nature and the hidden treasures found within the landscapes that connect us. This collection reflects a shared passion for discovering lost, weathered, reclaimed subjects and reimagining them as something new.

ART is a mother-and-daughter exhibition that celebrates the beauty hidden in our world, from forest finds to overlooked architectural details. Through a variety of compositions and subjects, the artists express a deep appreciation for history, transformation, and the stories objects and places hold over time.

The exhibition features imagery of old structures that have existed for generations, some of which once belonged to our own family. A series of works inspired by rusted vehicles began with a 1951 Mercury converted truck bed discovered on our homestead. The collection moves across pastel, pencil, ink, and acrylic, reflecting the richness and versatility of our artistic voices.

Representing the next generation is seven-year-old Bearrett Laurence, the third-generation descendant of the Cooper family.  He will be exhibiting in this show with his third painting, marking the continuation of a family tradition rooted in creativity.

ART is a celebration of imagination, craftsmanship, and the special bond between mother, daughter, and grandson, illustrating how a love of art is passed down through generations. We hope this exhibition—and the stories behind it—leave you inspired, moved, and deeply touched.

The Gallery is open on Saturdays 10 – 2 (call in advance).

Less Than a Week Away: Architecture – Rust – Treasures

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Third Friday Argenta Art Walk is BACK Friday, March 20, 5 to 8 PM

Swipe through some highlights from February’s Art Walk, the crowds, the art, the energy! Next up, don’t miss our newest gallery exhibition “Architecture, Rust, Treasures” by Caprise Cooper and Evelyn Laurence at Argenta Library

This mother and daughter exhibition celebrates hidden beauty in weathered objects, reclaimed treasures, and overlooked architecture and features a special third generation artist, 7 year old Bearrett Laurence.

🕘 Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM | Free to the public

Come explore the gallery, see the stories behind the art, and feel the magic of Art Walk in Argenta. You will not want to miss it

Grateful for the Spotlight: A Feature on My Rusty Art

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It was both an honor and a humbling moment when my friend and fellow artist, Jean Lewis, asked to feature my rusty art in her monthly newsletter. I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited to share the full article here.

I first met Jean several years ago when she entered the Arkansas Pastel Society National Show. We quickly connected — not only through our shared love of art, but also through our Chicago roots. Jean is a native Chicagoan, and I was born in Chicago and raised in the suburbs, which made our connection even more meaningful.

Since then, Jean has joined the Arkansas Pastel Society, and whenever she has a painting included in one of our exhibitions, she makes the trip to be part of it. Her dedication to her work and to the art community is inspiring. I highly encourage you to visit her website and explore her beautiful work.

Thank you, Jean, for your support and friendship.

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.