Morning Light 16" x 12" Pastel $1,250

Abandoned 30 x 36 Pastel $4,600

Hazy Morning 20 x 24 Pastel $2,700

Into The Valley 24" x 20" Pastel $2,700

Summer Pasture II 12" x 16" Pastel $1,250

Summer Lake 24" x 30" Pastel $3,200

Autumn Lake 12" x 16" Pastel $1,200

Foothills 20" x 24" Pastel $2,700

Aspen & Pines 36" x 24" Pastel $3,400

Lavender Harvest 36 x 24 Pastel $3,400

Solitude 14 x 11 Pastel $1,100

Down Stream 24 x 12 Pastel $1,600

ARTIST STATEMENT "These landscape paintings represent impressions and observations...my statement about how the subject has affected me." Each pastel painting begins as a black and white value study, using an abstract approach. While exploring compositional themes, the ideas for color and narrative begin to flood my thoughts. It is at this stage that the painting develops its unique voice. Working on a rigid panel, acrylic paint and gels are brushed on to create the color and "tooth" that will support and enhance the layering of pastels. Gold leaf is often used under the painted surface. Once this textured surface has been designed, a general placement of the main shapes is sketched in lightly with charcoal, and the adventure begins! Using the flat side of the soft pastel sticks, Susan begins the process of layering the colors, working from dark to light. The rich and complex colors develop as the color temperatures are pushed and pulled, edges are strengthened or lost altogether, and the values are clarified. "Painting for me is all about exploration, and discovery.   Each painting adventure begins as a study of the subject…and ends with an understanding of myself."