Appalachian Pastel Society presents “Big Little Paintings,” October 3-30 at BlackBird Frame and Art in Asheville. Award-winning pastel artists from across the Western Appalachian region are featured in the 2019 non-juried member show, showcasing their talents in an intimate format. Although sizes vary, artists are charged with creating small paintings for the show. Exhibition hours are 10-6 weekdays and 10-3 on Saturday.
The public is invited to the opening reception featuring APS participating artists, 6:30-8:30 pm, Thursday, October 10 at BlackBird Frame and Art, 365 Merrimon Ave. in North Asheville. Pastel paintings are for sale.
The Appalachian Pastel Society was formed in 2006 to promote and elevate the art of pastel painting through education, exhibitions, and other events. Centered in Western North Carolina, the organization serves members in the Appalachian region including North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Georgia. Members have received both national and international recognition. The APS is a member of the International Association of Pastel Societies.
Pastel is Pure Color
Soft pastel is the most archival of all painting media, explains Anne Allen of Hendersonville, co-chair of the APS member show. While using most of the same pigments as paint, soft pastel is a “dry medium” with a much higher concentration of pigment and therefore closest to the pure color of any of the painting media. Pastel can be blended by hand or left with visible strokes and lines. Either way, it is the vibrancy and depth of layered pigment that makes pastels unique to many collectors.
Pastel in fine art originated in the 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci was among the earliest to employ pastel. Many pastel artists trace their roots to 19th-century French impressionist Edgar Degas. Other iconic pastel artists include Claude Monet, Mary Cassatt, and James McNeill Whistler. Modern notable pastel artists include Odilon Redon, Fernando Botero, Wolf Kahn, and others. The renaissance of a pastel painting is fostered by fine arts organizations including The Pastel Society of America and International Association of Pastel Societies.
Benefactor Named
Giving back to the local arts community reflects the mission of APS artists, according to president Gary Rupp of Black Mountain, NC and Winter Park, FL. Open Hearts Art Center of Asheville was selected as the benefactor of the 2019 show.
“Dream Big,” an expressive arts experience based on the work of Russian/French painter Marc Chagall, was presented in July at Open Hearts by APS pastel artists, Cathyann Burgess and Anne Allen of Hendersonville, and Meryl Meyer of Weaverville. Additionally, a percentage of entry fees will help support future art exhibitions showcasing the works of Open Hearts’ adults.
Open Hearts is a nationally accredited, community-based art program, providing unique opportunities for differently-abled adults to express themselves through the arts.
BlackBird Hosts APS
“BlackBird Frame and Art is once again honored to host the talented members of the Appalachian Pastel Society, regional artists bringing new perspectives and techniques to an ages-old medium,” said John Horrocks. BlackBird is an independent gallery and custom frame studio owned by Pat and John Horrocks in north Asheville. Hours are 10-6 weekdays and 10-3 on Saturdays.
Get Involved
Appalachian Pastel Society meets the 2nd Saturday of January, March, May, July, September, and November. Follow the link to the APS website for a current schedule of meetings, pastel artist demonstrations, Plein air outdoor events, and exhibition opportunities at www.appalachianpastelsociety.org or www.facebook/appalachianpastelsociety.org.