Pastels and plein air bring joy to PPPS president Lyn Farrell.

 Pastel painting has become a popular and rewarding pastime for many seniors, and for good reason. It’s relaxing, visually striking and easier to learn than mediums like watercolor, making it an excellent choice for new artists.

Colorado Springs also offers a variety of landscapes that provide inspiration for pastel’s vibrant tones, from the breathtaking views of Garden of the Gods and Pikes Peak to the historic Manitou Cliff Dwellings.

The Pikes Peak Pastel Society (PPPS) supports beginners and seasoned artists alike. Founded in 1999 and officially recognized as a nonprofit in 2000, the group typically meets twice a month for informal “paint-outs” at Library 21c. These casual gatherings don’t require an RSVP and are open to nonmembers interested in learning more about pastel painting. 

While PPPS doesn’t offer formal instruction, veteran members sometimes invite those seeking individual guidance to their homes for personalized lessons.

A landscape comes to life in Katie Cassidy’s skilled hands.

 As members build confidence in their skills, they are encouraged to compete in the annual juried show, typically held in the fall at Library 21c. Members also enjoy perks such as field trips to art exhibits and museums, discounts on courses and opportunities to participate in plein air (outdoor) painting events.

Lyn Farrell, 70, president of PPPS, began painting in 2018 after retiring from a career as a regulatory attorney. Initially drawn to acrylic painting through online tutorials, she knew after watching a pastel artist at work that she’d found the medium she really wanted to work with.

“Pastel is much more vibrant than other mediums. It has very expensive pigments in each stick, which let you achieve effects you can’t create with liquid paint,” she said. “It’s also rather forgiving and easy to manipulate.” 

Farrell enjoys painting figures, landscapes and abstract art, and favors pastels for their distinctive look. 

Mary Sexton, 68, a lifelong artist, enjoys creating both realistic and whimsical plein air scenes. Her interest in painting on location began after she took a plein air class in Rhode Island, and since painted landscapes from various places, including Colorado’s gold rush town of Victor and the iconic Pikes Peak. 

George Hart puts finishing touches on “purple mountain majesties.”

 Sexton draws inspiration from artists like Lorenzo Chavez, whose Southwestern plein air works beautifully capture nature, and Desmond O’Hagan, who focuses on urban subjects. 

If you’re interested in learning more about pastel painting and joining a supportive artistic community, PPPS offers a welcoming environment for all skill levels. 

“Everybody is absolutely lovely and very supportive of each other,” Sexton said. “We’re one of the nicest art groups around.”

To learn more, visit PikesPeak Pastel.org or call 719-338-5548.