May 2013

BlackBird Frame & Art in Asheville, NC, Features Works by Members of the Appalachian Pastel Society

BlackBird Frame & Art in Asheville, NC, will present the 2013 Non-Juried Exhibition of the Appalachian Pastel Society, on view from May 3 - 31, 2013. A reception will be held on May 3, from 6:30-8:30pm. Some of the finest artists in the region working in pastels will display new works in this show.

The Appalachian Pastel Society promotes and elevates the art of pastel painting in the region through education, exhibitions and other events. Centered in Asheville, the organization serves members in North and South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia and Georgia. The APS is a member of the International Association of Pastel Societies and APS members have received national recognition. The annual non-juried show allows the artists to showcase work of their choosing, exhibiting the vibrance and depth of layered pigment that makes pastels so special. All work at the show will be available for purchase.

Soft pastel is the most archival of all painting media. While using most of the same pigments as paint, soft pastel is a dry medium with a much higher concentration of pigment, and therefore is the closest to pure color of any of the painting media. It can be either blended by hand or left with visible strokes and lines. The ground is generally either paper, sanded boards or canvas. The use of soft pastels in fine art dates to the late 15th century, Leonardo da Vinci being among the earliest recorded to engage in its use. Since the 19th century, many famous artists, most notably perhaps Edgar Degas, have used pastels to a certain degree, some for complete painting, others for underpainting or finishing. Artists who favor pastels often cite the immediacy of the medium, its receptiveness to their spontaneity and the intimacy of its hands-on connection to the artist as reasons for their choice.

Throughout May, visit BlackBird to delight in the treasures created by these dedicated artists bringing new perspectives and techniques to an ages-old medium.

BlackBird Frame & Art is an independent gallery and custom frame studio owned by Pat and John Horrocks, located in north Asheville.

For further information check our NC Commercial Gallery listing, call the gallery at 828/252-3117 or e-mail to (john@blackbirdframe.com).

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