We. Are. Pastelists.
The Pastel Society of the West Coast is proud to offer its members exemplary opportunities for education, competition and community.
Top News
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS
99 Voices in Pastel is PSWC’s major international exhibition, showcasing 99 standout pastel paintings selected for their excellence, range, and expressive power. The show highlights how diverse the pastel medium can be — from bold contemporary work to delicate realism.
There will be an estimated $15,000 in awards, including cash awards for Best of Show, First, Second, and Third place.
Judge of Awards: Clark Mitchell
Out of Bounds: Where Pastel Breaks the Rules in Morro Bay
The exhibition is now open at Art Center Morro Bay!
You can view the online gallery of accepted works using the button below.
The awards will be announced at the reception on April 12th at 2pm Pacific Time, and we will try to stream it.
Congratulations to everyone in the show!
April Guest Blog
In this thoughtful blog, an instructor reflects on the unexpected joy of teaching and the business practices that make pastel education truly effective. From iterative demos to scholarships and community partnerships, it’s a fresh look at what elevates an art program beyond technique.
2026 Regional Events
Connect Locally, Create Together
Thanks to our dedicated regional volunteers, PSWC members can enjoy a growing calendar of in-person events—from casual meetups to creative outings. While our community spans far and wide, these local gatherings offer a chance to share inspiration, build friendships, and experience art together.
We. Are. Active.
PSWC provides excellent opportunities for our members to be actively involved in the pastel art community. See a highlight of our activities on the membership benefits page.