Positively Pastels

“We approach our work individually using a wide range of styles, from bold strokes to blending, dry or wet. We will produce an eclectic display of tonal and colourful paintings with styles from abstract to realism.”

Each day during the exhibition one or more of the artists will be painting in the gallery and there will be samples of pastels, tools and different papers to give visitors an insight into the process of pastel painting.

Walking the South West Coast Path inspired Sue to paint some of the scenery and countryside she had experienced. Pastels are her favourite medium for their ability to depict a variety of moods, light and colour. She also paints flowers and portraits, including dogs.

As a student of the late Keith Stott, Carol Deathridge came to love the immediacy, versatility and forgiving nature of soft pastels, and their ability to portray the sense of calm and spaciousness she feels about the Devon landscape.

Wendy Chudley’s paintings often focus on the ever-changing skies or the continuous movement of the sea. She makes studies in the landscape and returns to her studio to start a new painting that captures the light, emotion and atmosphere of the moment.

Cherry Lyons is drawn to the rich tapestry of colour-drenched textures and the unique light of the south west coast and country landscapes. In her pastel painting she particularly enjoys the textural qualities of soft pastels, layered and blended.

Lesley Meir is drawn to gardens, landscape and still life, working particularly with colour relationships and reactions. Anita Foord enjoys blending and mixing on the paper and working with the vibrant colours found in flowers, the coast and the moors.

The fluid and energetic combination of drawing and painting that pastels allow offers Rebecca de Mendonca the opportunity to depict atmosphere, movement and drama with precision in equestrian subjects and Devon landscapes. She is an Associate member of the Society of Equestrian Artists, teaches pastel courses in Britain and Italy, and has written ‘Pastels for the Absolute Beginner’, published by Search Press.

For more information visit https://www.harbourhouse.org.uk/g21-sm.shtml