Vermont Pastel Society

The Vermont Pastel Society (VPS) was established by a group of artists in 1999 to build and strengthen connections among pastellists, to foster their artistic development, and to provide links to resources. In addition, we promote public appreciation of pastels as a fine art medium. Join us!

Pastel painting can be traced back to the 16th century. Degas, Redon, Manet, Renoir, Millet, Delacroix and numerous other artists used them for sketching and finished paintings. Pastels are experiencing the renaissance they deserve as they are extremely vibrant, containing so much undiluted pigment. When applied to conservation ground and protected by a fixative or glass, pastels are one of the most permanent of all mediums. There are many types of pastels. Pastels are made with the same pure pigment used in all art mediums, with minimal dry or oil binder. There are many techniques to discover with pastels, including combining with other mediums. A pastel painting is often created by stroking sticks of pastel across an abrasive ground, embedding the color into the “tooth” of the surface. Since there is no palette, pastels are often blended or layered to allow a galaxy of colors to shine through and vibrate, creating luminous and intriguing paintings.

We welcome new members of all ability levels, beginners as well as experienced artists. Membership dues are $30 a year.

Benefits include:

• website gallery page with link to your own website

• workshops, educational programs and paint-outs

• opportunities to exhibit in juried and non-juried shows

• free access to DVD lending library

• discounts and early registration at VPS workshops

• liason with other pastel societies including the International

Association of Pastel Societies

• other opportunities to share information and resources with VPSmembership

All members are encouraged to participate in any way they can to keep VPS a vibrant organization.

A list of our board members are on the right. Don't hesitate to contact us if you would like more information.