Illinois Prairie Pastel Society
The Illinois Prairie Pastel Society (IPPS) has been acknowledged by leaders in the pastel world as exceptional in its support of its artist members. Beginning in 2006 when 6 Springfield, IL pastel artists came together to form the Springfield Area Pastelists, the IPPS has grown to over 50 members from throughout Central Illinois and surrounding areas.
But what makes this group exceptional?
Foremost in our mission is to encourage, promote and foster creativity in the use of pastels. To encourage and promote pastels artists in their growth and success, IPPS members have multiple opportunities each week to share ideas, experiment, paint and learn from each other.
IPPS annually brings in nationally recognized artists to teach workshops and to share their creative talents with the group. In addition, advanced artists of the IPPS provide workshops, en plein air opportunities and critique sessions for the members.
Members of IPPS are eligible to participate in all the exhibit opportunities that are provided. Exhibits may include a variety of membership, judged, juried and art fair opportunities, averaging 4 events each year.
To promote fellowship among the members, the IPPS hosts membership meetings, exhibit receptions and a membership & family potluck.
IPPS also promotes public awareness and gives back to the community by creating an original work of art for each family at the dedication of their new home which has been built by Habitat for Humanity. Each painting is created as a group effort with multiple IPPS artists adding their own individual marks. Recipient families look forward with excitement for what for many is their first piece of original artwork.
IPPS welcomes all skill levels with membership ranging from beginners to award winning artists. Members of the IPPS have been recognized by the Pastel Journal in the Pastel 100 Competition, Pastel Society of America’s Annual Show, Plein Air Magazine and other regional, national and international shows. The IPPS is a member of the International Association of Pastel Societies.
