In Episode 6 of The Pastel Podcast we sat down with Pamela Comfort — pastel artist and president of the Pastel Society of the West Coast (PSWC) — to hear how she went from a 30-year career in education to leading one of the largest and most active pastel societies in the United States. Pamela’s story is equal parts curiosity, community-building, and practical insight for artists at every stage. Here’s a condensed, actionable recap of our conversation and what PSWC offers to pastelists everywhere. How Pamela discovered pastels Pamela’s pastel journey began in 2019 after retirement. While packing boxes from her education career she found oil pastels she’d used for leadership workshops and decided to “play around” with them. Curious and methodical by training, she dove into online research and workshops and quickly discovered soft (dry) pastels. What followed was a joyful plunge: ordering pastels and papers, setting up an easel, and learning by doing. Her experience is a great reminder that it’s never too late to start a new creative practice. "I just started headlong into it... next thing you know, I'm buying the dry pastels. They're arriving in the mail one after another." From volunteer to PSWC president Pamela’s involvement with PSWC began through volunteering. Because of her decades in education — including connections to county superintendents and arts initiatives across California — she stepped in as a scholarship co-chair to help promote PSWC’s student scholarships. Her volunteer work opened doors: she met artists, learned organizational ropes, and was asked to take on more leadership roles, ultimately becoming PSWC president. What the Pastel Society of the West Coast offers PSWC is one of the largest pastel societies in the U.S., with hundreds of members and a broad slate of programs designed to support artists from beginners to award-winning professionals. Below are the core offerings Pamela described: Workshops and demonstrations In-person workshops across Northern, Central and Southern California, often aligned with shows or festivals. Online Zoom demonstrations and modular workshops — for example, short Saturday-afternoon series (1–4 PM) to lower the commitment barrier. Guest instructors vary from local favorites to international artists, and PSWC sometimes offers member scholarships to attend workshops. Shows and competitions 99 Voices : A prestigious traditional pastel exhibit (currently showing at the Hilbert Museum of California Art). MOOS : A members-only online show (convenient: no framing or shipping). Multimedia Show : A physical show where artists can break the usual pastel society rule — instead of the typical requirement that the final layer be at least 80% pastel, PSWC allows pieces with only 30–50% pastel in the final layer. This makes room for oil + pastel, collage + pastel, watercolor underpaintings with exposed layers, gouache, acrylic, inks and mixed-media techniques. "In a regular pastel society show the top layer is supposed to be 80% dry or soft pastel. For our multimedia show the final layer is supposed to be only 30 to 50% pastel — it really has to be multimedia." Challenges, magazine exposure, and guest blogs Regular themed challenges (10-day, 21-day, and others) that include educational primers, daily practice, and peer feedback. Selected works from challenges and regional activities are highlighted in PSWC’s beautiful print magazine — a tangible form of recognition for emerging artists who may not yet get into juried shows. Guest blog posts and archived interviews/demonstrations provide ongoing educational content on the PSWC website. Scholarships Two scholarship tracks: high school seniors heading to college art programs, and college students pursuing art degrees. Recent awards have been $2,000 each. Member workshop scholarships are also offered periodically so artists can afford professional instruction. Community, critique, and the power of honest feedback One of the strongest benefits Pamela emphasized is community — a place where pastelists "speak the same language." PSWC encourages honest critique from peers and mentors, which helps artists grow faster than praise alone. Pamela noted that posting work among artist peers produces actionable feedback, versus general applause from friends and family which, while lovely, doesn’t push skill development. "A good critique from someone you trust is one of the most powerful tools for elevating your skills to a new level." Volunteering: small commitments, big rewards PSWC faces the same volunteer and demographic challenges as many arts organizations: membership skews older, materials are expensive, and it can be hard to recruit younger volunteers. Pamela’s approach was practical — break volunteer roles into small, manageable jobs so more people can contribute without feeling overwhelmed. Regional reps : Low-pressure role. Do what you already enjoy — organize a paint-out, host a small group critique, or invite people to a museum show. PSWC supports reps with publicity, swag, and no strict meeting requirements. Remote board : PSWC board members live across the U.S. and internationally, so meetings and programming run online to accommodate everyone. "Volunteer. It's not only good for them, it's good for you and your soul." Membership levels and recognition PSWC, like many societies, has tiered membership status (general, signature, distinguished pastelist, and pastel laureate). Artists earn points toward higher levels by being accepted into shows, earning awards, and contributing to the community. These credentials (and corresponding initials) are recognized in the pastel world and can help artists gain visibility and professional credibility. Where PSWC is headed PSWC is continually evolving. Right now 99 Voices is on view at the Hilbert Museum through the end of November. Pamela hinted that 2026 — the Year of the Fire Horse — will be a time of change and "rocking and rolling" for the society. Expect more hybrid programming, refined member benefits, and renewed efforts to connect with other society presidents for shared learning. Final thoughts and how to get involved PSWC offers workshops, shows (traditional and multimedia), challenges, scholarships, a print magazine, guest blogs, and regular online programming. Whether you’re a beginner buying your first soft pastels or a seasoned award-winner looking to experiment with mixed media, there’s a place to learn and be seen. If you’re inspired to join or support the pastel community: Visit the Pastel Society of the West Coast website to explore membership, programs, archives, and upcoming events. Consider volunteering in a small role — regional rep, event helper, or online content contributor — to build relationships and develop your practice. Try a PSWC challenge to jumpstart daily practice and possibly see your work in the magazine. "Art makes people happy and we need more happy people in this world." Thanks to Pamela Comfort for her leadership and to everyone in the pastel community who teaches, critiques, volunteers, and paints. If you want to explore more, check out PSWC programs and consider joining the movement — there’s a next step ready for every artist. Related Links from this episode of the Pastel Podcast: Pamela Comfort's Website Pastel Society of the West Coast International Association of Pastel Societies Pastel Live Online Conference Plein Air Convention & Expo Pastel Today free e-newsletter
This episode of The Pastel Podcast features Albert Handell, an influential impressionist painter working in both pastel and oil. The conversation traces Handell’s artistic journey—from early training at the Art Students League and years in Europe to breakthroughs with pastel, major honors, and a lifelong commitment to teaching. Listeners hear practical demonstrations, technical advice, and stories that reveal why Handell is widely credited with helping popularize plein air pastel painting in the modern era. #PastelPodcast #AlbertHandell #PastelPainting #OilPainting #PleinAirPastel #LandscapePainting #PastelArt #PastelSociety #ArtPodcast #PaintingInspiration #ArtTechniques #PastelArtists #ColorTheory #ArtWorkshops #ImpressionistArt
Episode 4: Harley Brown – A Legendary Artist’s Journey Through Art and Life In this unforgettable episode of The Pastel Podcast, hosts Lisa Skelly and Kari Stober sit down with legendary artist Harley Brown, whose expressive pastel and oil portraits have captivated the art world for decades. With his signature blend of wisdom, humor, and heart, Harley reflects on a life lived through creativity—from his earliest inspiration at age seven to painting U.S. presidents and becoming a beloved teacher and storyteller. We explore Harley’s thoughts on artistic expression, design, values, and staying true to your voice. He shares wild tales from his past, his nemesis “Belanovsky,” and lessons from his honest and hilarious book, Confessions of a Starving Artist. This episode is packed with inspiration for anyone who wants to live—and paint—with passion, purpose, and courage. Related Links from this episode of The Pastel Podcast Harley Brown's website Plein Air Convention Pastel Today free e-newsletter HarleyBrown #PastelPodcast #ThePastelPodcast #PastelArt #OilPainting #PortraitPainting #ArtWisdom #ConfessionsOfAStarvingArtist #PastelPainting #ArtistJourney #LegendaryArtist #PaintingWithEmotion #ArtPodcast
Episode 3: Marla Baggetta – Embracing Fundamentals, Freedom & a Life in Pastels In this inspiring episode of The Pastel Podcast, hosts Lisa Skelly and Kari Stober sit down with nationally acclaimed pastel artist and visionary educator Marla Baggetta for a rich and insightful conversation about art, teaching, and creative freedom. With over three decades of experience, Marla shares her journey from commercial illustrator to fine artist and how the landscapes of Oregon led her to fall in love with the pastel medium. We dive into the power of fundamentals, the value of daily sketching and thumbnails, and Marla’s trailblazing approach to online pastel education. She opens up about her commitment to lifelong learning, balancing creativity with sustainability, and how exploration across mediums keeps her work vibrant and alive. If you're ready to reignite your artistic spark and embrace the joy of painting with pastels, this episode is for you! Related Links from this episode of The Pastel Podcast Marla Baggetta’s website Marla Bagetta’s Instagram Marla Baggetta’s Etsy Store Plein Air Convention Lon Brauer on Art School Live IAPS - International Association of Pastel Societies #PastelArt #MarlaBaggetta #PastelPainting #PastelPodcast #ThePastelPodcast #OnlineArtEducation #PaintingWithPastels #ArtInspiration #DailyPractice #ArtMentorship #SoftPastels #ArtCareer #CreativeFreedom #ArtPodcast
Episode 2: William A Schneider - A Journey Through Art, Music, and the Passion for Pastels In this exciting episode of The Pastel Podcast, hosts Lisa Skelly and Kari Stober sit down with master pastel and oil painter William A. Schneider to explore his incredible journey through art, music, and creative mastery! Discover how Bill transitioned from not one, but two successful careers to become a celebrated pastel and oil painter, and a sought-after instructor. We dive deep into his artistic philosophy, the importance of master copies, insights from legendary mentors like Bill Parks and Harley Brown, and the challenges of painting portraits, figures, and atmospheric scenes. Bill shares practical tips on composition, design methods, and blending techniques that cross between pastel and oil mediums. Whether you’re an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, this conversation offers invaluable lessons on staying a perpetual student, mastering values, and pushing creative boundaries. Don’t miss this inspiring episode! Related Links from this episode of the Pastel Podcast The Pastel Today free weekly newsletter William A Schneider website List of Pastel Societies to Join Bill’s instructional courses on PaintTube.TV #PastelArt #PastelPainting #PastelPodcast #ThePastelPodcast #WilliamSchneider #OilPainting #ArtInspiration #MasterCopies #PaintingTechniques #ArtPodcast #PerpetualStudent #ArtPhilosophy
Pastel Podcast Episode 1: Exploring the Soulful Art of Pastel with Kim Lordier Welcome to a vibrant journey through the world of pastel painting, where passion, technique, and personal stories intertwine to inspire artists of all levels. In this engaging conversation, hosts Lisa Skelly and Kari Stober, share their experiences, insights, and heartfelt connections to the medium. This article delves into the soulful artistry of Kim Lordier, one of the nation’s finest pastel plein air painters, exploring her approach, inspirations, and the unique magic she brings to her work. Kim is known for her generosity and warmth, qualities that make her not only a brilliant artist but also a beloved mentor and friend. Her approachable nature and encouragement have helped many artists overcome self-doubt and embrace their creative voices. Meeting Kim Lordier: A Serendipitous Beginning Kim Lordier’s story is not only about her mastery of pastel but also about the profound connections that art can foster. The first encounter for Lisa and Kim was serendipitous—sparked by a magazine cover featuring her work. Both Kim and Lisa shared a surprising commonality: they had been flight attendants. This unexpected link led to an invitation to a plein air event in Sonoma County, and eventually a lasting friendship. It’s a testament to how art can unite people. Beyond her artistic journey, Kim shares an unusual family connection with co-host Kari Stober, the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Both descend from siblings who survived this tragic event during a wagon train journey to California. The Soulful Essence of Kim Lordier’s Pastel Paintings What makes Kim’s paintings resonate so deeply? The answer lies in the soulful quality she infuses into her work. She explains that there is no simple formula; rather, it’s about pouring oneself into each painting and blending foundational elements like value simplification and shape composition with personal expression. Kim often employs an underpainting technique, especially for larger studio pieces, which helps her build a strong tonal foundation before layering pastel. In plein air settings, she typically works directly with pastel, capturing the immediacy of the moment. Her process is patient and intuitive, allowing the painting to “talk” to her and evolve organically. For example, in one of her celebrated works, Baby, It’s Cold Outside, she used a Fibonacci spiral to refine the composition, patiently waiting to add a subtle puff of breath that brought the scene to life. From Illustration to Pastel: A Journey of Confidence and Discovery Kim’s artistic path began early, painting animal portraits in pastel since she was 15. She initially pursued illustration but found the competitive environment intimidating. Later, she embraced plein air painting, starting with oils and adapting those techniques to pastel. A pivotal moment came during plein air sessions with her mentor Brit, who encouraged Kim to appreciate the power of simplified tonal shapes and to trust her emerging style. Painting in the Field: The Joys and Challenges of Plein Air Pastel Painting outdoors presents unique challenges and rewards. Kim’s approach to plein air pastel is to capture intimate scenes and color notes rather than finishing fully detailed paintings on site. Her plein air works often serve as studies or inspiration for larger studio pieces. She emphasizes the importance of stepping back frequently to observe the overall composition and values, a practice that helps maintain clarity and depth in the work. Her friend Lisa Skelly recounts painting alongside Kim during a plein air workshop, marveling at Kim’s ability to see and capture elements in the landscape that others might miss. Kim’s vision and mark-making are described as a “dance” with the pastel sticks—fluid, gestural, and full of life. The Dance of Pastel: Gesture, Movement, and Expression Kim likens her painting process to a dance, where every stroke reflects the gesture and growth of the subject. She doesn’t paint individual details in isolation but captures the essence and movement of forms, such as the sway of grasses or the posture of horses. This approach imbues her work with a dynamic energy and emotional resonance. Understanding and Mastering Atmospheric Perspective in Pastel One of the technical challenges in landscape painting is achieving atmospheric perspective—the illusion of depth created by changes in color, value, and contrast. Kim stresses the importance of understanding how values compress and colors cool as the eye travels into the distance. She advises artists to observe how contrasts between light and dark lessen with distance, and how warm colors in the foreground gradually shift to cooler blues and purples in the background. To assist with value assessment, she recommends stepping back frequently and using tools like black-and-white photos or phone screenshots to evaluate the painting’s tonal structure objectively. Color Challenges and Solutions in Pastel Painting Unlike paint mediums that allow mixing colors on a palette, pastel artists work with discrete sticks of pigment. Kim shares strategies for overcoming color limitations, such as glazing—applying thin layers of complementary colors to modify intensity and hue. She emphasizes the importance of simplifying values to accommodate the inherent jumps in pastel colors and encourages playful experimentation within those constraints. Both Kim and Lisa advocate for light, translucent layers over heavy-handed applications, which can dull the vibrant colors and reduce the layering possibilities. This delicate layering technique, combined with gestural mark-making, helps bring luminosity and depth to pastel paintings. Exploring Mixed Media: Oil Underpaintings with Pastel Kim is an innovator who embraces the versatility of pastel by incorporating mixed media into her work. Recently, she created a painting with an oil underpainting topped with pastel strokes, which was accepted into an experimental show by the Pastel Society of the West Coast. This approach allows her to build texture and tonal depth before adding the vibrant pastel layers, expanding the creative possibilities of the medium. She notes practical considerations such as allowing the oil paint to cure fully and using museum glass with spacers to protect the delicate surface. This blending of traditional and contemporary techniques highlights the evolving nature of pastel art. Finding Your Artistic Voice: The Concept of “Drive-By Painting” Kim introduces the idea of “drive-by painting” as a metaphor for discovering one’s style and preferences. Just as you might glimpse a striking scene from a car window, artists often develop internal preferences for shapes, colors, and compositions through repeated exposure to visual stimuli. Becoming aware of what naturally attracts you is key to cultivating a unique artistic voice. She encourages artists to be self-aware and to trust their instincts, even when they don’t fully understand why a particular scene or color combination resonates. This process of tuning into personal aesthetics helps artists move beyond imitation toward authentic expression. Seeing Beyond the Obvious: The Magic of Color in Nature A transformative insight Kim shares is the realization that natural elements like snow, clouds, and waves are rarely pure white. Instead, they reflect a spectrum of colors influenced by light and environment. To help students grasp this, Kim uses an innovative teaching exercise involving colored construction paper, light sources, and absorbent materials to simulate the subtle color reflections found in nature. This exercise teaches artists to reserve the brightest white for highlights and to explore the nuanced colors that give life to seemingly white subjects. By understanding these color relationships, artists can create more realistic and compelling paintings. Personal Color Palettes and the Signature “Tickle” of Color Every artist develops a personal color palette that reflects their tastes and emotional responses. Kim shares how she used to add small touches of brilliant orange in her paintings as a subtle guide for the viewer’s eye—a “tickle” of color that became a signature element. Lisa, for example, gravitates toward teals and blues, while Kim leans into rich autumnal hues. Recognizing and embracing these preferences helps artists create cohesive bodies of work that reflect their unique identities. The Importance of Play and Experimentation in Artistic Growth Mastering pastel painting involves a balance between disciplined practice and playful experimentation. Kim encourages artists to set aside time for “recess” — moments to explore, ask “what if,” and try new approaches without pressure. Such play fosters creativity and can lead to breakthroughs in style and technique. She references Larry Moore’s “Fishing for Elephants” exercises as examples of fun, thought-provoking ways to engage with art beyond traditional methods. Amidst the demands of shows, teaching, and life, carving out time for experimentation is essential for artistic vitality. Looking Ahead: Kim Lordier’s Upcoming Projects and Legacy Kim is actively involved in teaching workshops, including a recent one and an upcoming event with the Tucson Pastel Society. She is preparing new works for the show Wild Wild Women Paint the West, featuring a stellar lineup of women artists, which will open at the Loom Gallery in Montana. In recognition of her significant contributions, Kim will soon receive the prestigious Pastel Laureate distinction from the Pastel Society of the West Coast, joining a distinguished group of artists. This honor reflects her mastery, influence, and dedication to the pastel medium. When asked about her legacy, Kim expresses gratitude for her time on earth and hopes to be remembered as open, friendly, and a good mother. Her humility and warmth shine through, reminding us that art is not only about creating beautiful obje