We. Are. Pastelists.
The Pastel Society of the West Coast is proud to offer its members exemplary opportunities for education, competition and community.
Top News
Double your fun on August 7th & 8th
Attend Acclaimed Artist Clark Mitchell’s Workshop on the 7th and 8th!
The Art of Mark Making: Dynamic Pastel Landscapes
2-Day IN-PERSON Workshop
$325 for PSWC Members
$375 for Non-members
August 7-8, 2026 9:00am –4:00pm
VEFA Gallery
21825 Hawthorne Blvd, Torrance, CA
Then join the awards reception on the 8th at 6pm!
40th Annual International Open Juried Exhibition
Visual Experience Fine Art Gallery (VEFA), Torrance, CA
August 1 – September 12, 2026
Gala Awards Reception
Saturday, August 8th from 6–8p
June Guest Blog
The Power of Emotion
Christine Obers reveals how feeling becomes the heartbeat of a painting, carrying a power equal to any technique.
We. Love. To. Learn.
Upcoming Fall Workshops
Kim Lordier
Simplifying for Strength
Sept 30th – Oct 2nd
3 Day – In person – Boise, Idaho
Ready to strengthen your compositions and stop getting lost in the details? This three‑day oil/pastel workshop dives into value structure, design, and confident mark making—plus demos, exercises, and a personal critique to help you grow.
Christine Obers
All the Gusto without the Dusto:
Intro to Pastel Pencils
Nov 7th – 8th
2 Day – Online via Zoom
Learn the power of form and value through a focused grisaille. In this three‑day workshop, you’ll work with just a few pastel pencils on grey paper, starting with a morning demo and moving into your own project. Share works‑in‑progress anytime for feedback, and get practical guidance on fixing problem areas.
2026 Regional Events
Connect Locally, Create Together
Thanks to the dedication of our regional volunteers, PSWC members now enjoy an expanding lineup of in‑person events—from relaxed meetups to creative excursions. Although our community stretches across many regions, these local gatherings offer meaningful opportunities to connect, share inspiration, and experience art together.
We. Are. Active.
PSWC provides excellent opportunities for our members to be actively involved in the pastel art community. See a highlight of our activities on the membership benefits page.