Dear Friends,
It's been a while since I've sent out a proper newsletter, so it is
high time that I share some news and goings on with you.
Manhattan Morning
Manhattan Morning
Manhattan Morning goes to New York City
This year brought a notable honor and a career highlight. My painting
Manhattan Morning was included in the Pastel Society of America's
"Enduring Brilliance" exhibition at the National Arts Club in New York.
I captured the reference the year before, during my first PSA
acceptance. From our hotel room I watched the sun rise over the skyline
each morning, soft light spilling across the buildings before evening
returned the city to a sea of twinkling lights. Painting that view felt
like holding a little piece of the city in my hands.
The painting received the PSA Enduring Brilliance Award and will also
be included in an exhibition at the Butler Institute of American Art in
Ohio in 2026. Moments like this are reminders of how much joy comes
from connecting people with the work we create.
_____
OFFE
OFFE
A New Role at Pastel Society of America
This spring, I received an invitation to join the PSA Board of
Governors as Education Chair. The opportunity was unexpected and
exciting, giving me a chance to contribute in a new way. Working with
such a talented group of artists and helping shape educational programs
has been inspiring. I'm looking forward to what's ahead and to the ways
we can support artists at every stage of their journey.
_____
Bound and Beautiful
Bound and Beautiful
Distinguished Pastelist with Pastel Society of the West Coast
Also this year, the Pastel Society of the West Coast recognized my
painting Bound and Beautiful with the Armadillo Art and Craft Award. It
was my third award with PSWC in five years, which earned me the title
of Distinguished Pastelist. Those letters after my name may look small,
but they carry years of learning, persistence, and love for pastel, and
I feel proud to carry them forward.
_____
Line of Focus
Line of Focus
Masters Circle with International Association of Pastel Societies
Earlier in the fall of 2024, I reached another milestone when one of my
works earned my fifth acceptance into the International Association of
Pastel Societies exhibitions, granting me membership in the Master
Circle. I will receive my medallion at the IAPS convention in 2026.
Each acceptance felt like a step forward, and together they trace the
path that has brought me to this point in my artistic journey.
I am sharing the five paintings that were accepted over the course of
three years.
Urban Rails
Urban Rails
Earthly Paradise
Earthly Paradise
Hidden Treasures
Hidden Treasures
Last Glass
Last Glass
_____
IMG_6587 3
Not All Gifts Are Gold
Not All Gifts Are Gold - Willamette Valley Lavender Festival
This summer I returned to the Willamette Valley Lavender Festival for
their plein air event. As a studio painter, stepping into the fields is
always a challenge, and this year it was especially hard. My family had
been navigating a difficult chapter, and I didn't have much left to
give. I finished three pieces I didn't feel great about and almost
withdrew, but I submitted them anyway.
When I returned to pick up the paintings feeling dejected and foolish
for entering the show this year, an older woman lingered in front of my
work. She asked if I was the artist and shared how much the pieces
spoke to her. Not having sold any of my work, I offered her one of the
paintings on the spot, and she was deeply grateful. That moment
reminded me why we keep creating, even when it feels like we have
nothing left.
_____
Shantung Street
Shantung Street
Pastel Journal Magazine Feature
I am also thrilled to share that I will be featured in the Winter issue
of Pastel Journal magazine. It is such an honor to have my work and
thoughts included, and I look forward to sharing a peek with you when
the issue comes out. You can also purchase a copy at any well stocked
newsstand like Barnes & Noble.
_____
Shelf Life
Shelf Life
New Work: Shelf Life
I'm excited to share my latest large pastel, Shelf Life (24 x 36").
This piece captures the quiet drama of an ordinary grocery store
display - turning rows of vegetables into a study of color, rhythm, and
light. A reminder that beauty often hides in plain sight.
_____
Open Studios Thanks
Fall Bounty
Fall Bounty
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who came to my Open Studios
this past week. Seeing collectors and friends enjoy the work in person
is always a highlight. I am grateful for the conversations, support,
and shared love of art that makes this work so meaningful.
_____
Instagram
If you'd like to keep up with more current news throughout the year,
you can follow me on Instagram using the link above.
Have a wonderful season of thanks and giving.
Warmly,
Bithia, IAPS-MC, PSA, PSWC-DP, NPS
Pastel Society of America Board of Governors, Education Chair
{{FASO_DOMAIN_VISIBLE}}
{{AM_COMPANY_NAME}}
{{AM_COMPANY_ADDRESS}}
{{AM_CSZ}}
{{AM_COUNTRY}}
Unsubscribe
Sent with ArtfulMail