FOR PASTELS ONLY

Organized by The Pastel Painters of Maine (PPOM), this 11th international juried exhibition and sale displays works of pastel artists from the United States and Canada. Winnowed from an initial 228 entries, with celebrated artist Frank Federico as the juror of selection, the show ultimately features 59 stunning works by 52 artists representing 13 states and Canada. Criteria for submissions dictated that works must be: original soft pastels in any subject or style; no larger than 45” x 45” framed; at least 80% soft pastel; offered for sale; and recent, no earlier than January 1, 2008.

According to Federico, “Selection was based on uniqueness and imaginative but cohesive design elements.” During the public opening reception and awards ceremony on May 22, juror of awards Bill Creevy presented more than $5,000 in prizes. Creevy is a Pastel Society of America Master Pastelist and author of The Pastel Book.

PPOM was established in 1999 by a group of southern Maine artists interested in soft pastels. The mission of PPOM is to promote the medium of soft pastel, to unite local and regional artists, and to heighten the public’s awareness of the medium. Since its founding, membership has grown to over 170 with members from throughout the United States and Canada.