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Monday, July 24, 2017

Pastel Pet Portrait Powerpoint & Demo

 Pastel Pet Portrait Powerpoint & Demo

Location: Cary Arts Center

101 Dry Avenue
Cary, North Carolina 27511

Sponsored by the Fine Arts League of Cary, NC





Come to the Fine Arts League of Cary Monthly Meeting at the Cary Arts Center Thursday, July 27th from 7:30-9:30, where I'll be giving a talk on my process in painting Pastel Pet Portraits.

They'll be a powerpoint presentation with step-by-step photos of my works in progress, with tips and of course, stories about commission work.  :)

Then a short demo as time allows.

Excited to present my work to you.  

Hope to see you there!

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Last Pastel Class of 2016!

Come join us and polish some of your started but not yet finished masterpieces!  


This 5 session class runs:

Come 
Joinus, Create and Get Dusty!

Questions?  E-mail me at kim.werfel@gmail.com


Friday, September 2, 2016

Autumn Goddess takes 1st Place!

So pleased that my pastel "Autumn Goddess" has taken 1st place and won $100 at the 14th Cary Senior Center Art Exhibition!



Come see her and "Prometheus" at the Cary Senior Center along with 53 other paintings available for purchase.




The center is located at 120 Maury O'Dell Place, Cary, NC in Bond Park.  Exhibition runs through September 23, 2016.

Thank You!

Kim Werfel

Fall Pastel Classes Begin September 12th!

Pastel Class (Beginning & Experienced)
5 Mondays, Sept 12 - Oct 10, 2016  1 -3 pm .  $75
Seymour Senior Center, Orange County, Chapel Hill






Join me and learn about painting in Soft Pastels.
Beginners will work with me in learning how to do pastels from photos.
More advanced students may work on independent projects with Kim's guidance.




Thought I'd share one of my proud students with a recent pastel painting painted from his photo from the South of France.  His setup is below, showing a b/w value reference photo and a color photo enlarged to size.





Would love to have you with us!

Located at  2551 Homestead Rd., Chapel Hill, NC  27516
(919) 968-2070

Please e-mail me with any questions:  kim.werfel@gmail.com.

Thank you!

Kim

Sunday, June 5, 2016

Upcoming Art Show at Liquidambar

I'm excited to be in a group show coming up this Summer at Liquidambar Gallery and Gifts in Pittsboro.   They're located at 80 Hillsboro Street, Pittsboro, NC  27312.

I've painted some Sandpipers from a recent trip to the beach that will be on exhibit there.










Each of these bright fellows are painted with pastel on 6"x6" gatorboard with an orange, yellow and gold acrylic underpainting followed up with clear Golden pastel ground.

They're framed in a nice wide gold plein aire frame - with all three in one frame.

I'm working on some more pieces, so c'mon down and check out the show.

Reception is July 3rd from 2-4pm.  2nd reception is August 7th from 2-4pm.  Last day of the show is August 28th.

The July 3rd reception coincides with a Pittsboro Street Fair, so you're sure to have a fun day in downtown Pittsboro when you visit.

Hope to meet you there!

~Kim

http://www.kimwerfel.com


Friday, June 3, 2016

June Pastel Class Begins!


My last class before Summer break begins Monday, June 6th at the Seymour Senior Center in Chapel Hill, NC.  Classes go through June 27th and are held from 1-3 pm. 





Pictured here is one of my accomplished and proud pastel students with her pastel portrait of her brother from last month's class :)

This class is an open studio class with experienced students working from their own photos and supplies.  I give private assistance to each student working on their individual projects at their own pace.

For more information, call the Seymour Center at 919 968-2070.

Thank you and would love to have you join us!

~Kim

www.kimwerfel.com

"Thundering Hoofs" Wins!


I'm proud to announce that not only has "Thundering Hoofs" juried into the 2016 NC Statewide Pastel Competition, but that it has won the Art Spectrum Award!


This pastel is 16"x20" and can be viewed at the Hickory Museum of Art in Hickory, NC.

Worked from a photo taken at Belmont Racetrack in Long Island, NY, I was challenged to create the feeling of action with dirt flying from their hoofs and the dramatic colors of the jockeys clothing.

It was great fun to create and I'm so honored to have been juried in with over 250 entries and only 17 selected for awards.

Hope you enjoy my pastel paintings!

~Kim

http://www.kimwerfel.com 

Thursday, March 31, 2016

New Spring Pastel Studio Classes!

Come join me at the Robert & Pearl Seymour Center, 2551 Homestead Rd in Chapel Hill, NC 27516 for some creative studio class time.  Bring your art and pastels and I'll critique and show you painting methods, composition, color tips and more while you work in class with other pastel students.

Next class begins Monday, April 4 - May 2, 5 weeks from 1-3 pm for $75.




Short 2 weeks following:  May 9th and May 16th (same day and time slot)

We pick up again in June for a shorter 4 week session June 6-27th.

Off for the Summer to pick up sometime in the Fall (to be determined).

Call the Seymour Center at 919 968-2070 for information on registration.

E-mail me with any questions:  k-e@mindspring.com .

Thursday, March 10, 2016

"Dante's Fawn" pastel is juried into Small Treasures Art Exhibition

My neighbor Dante pulled over when I was walking my dog last Spring to tell me about the new fawn on our block.  Of course, I had to paint him.....deer have a place in my heart, especially the new little fawns.


"Dante's Fawn", 5 1/2 x 7 1/2", pastel, $150 ©Kim Werfel

Unlike most of my work, this little fella is only 5 1/2" x 7 1/2", with a terracotta underpainting.  I submitted him to the 7th Cary Gallery of Artist's "Small Treasures" Juried Exhibition and got in!

Reception is Friday, March 25th from 6-9pm at the Cary Gallery of Artists, 200 South Academy Street, Cary, NC.  Show runs through April 23rd.  Gallery hours are Monday - Saturday 11- 5:30pm, and final Fridays 11-9 pm.

Would love to see you at the reception!

Kim

www.kimwerfel.com

Saturday, February 13, 2016

Prometheus, God of Fire

Here's another from my Renaissance Fair Series I call "Prometheus, God of Fire."
So much fun painting him!

Watching this man skillfully entertain the crowd while juggling fire was enthralling, to say the least!
The flames were lighting his already red face and created quite a theatrical effect.

"Prometheus, God of Fire", 16"x12", pastel©KimWerfel

I love capturing movement, and it's the first time I ever painted fire.  Exciting!  Loved the pattern on his vest, the hat, and the great compositional effect of the three moving torches.  On U-Art board, 320 grit, with an orange under painting to bring up the heat and make the blue vibrate.  Made rough strokes to capture the texture of the background.

Hope to get to painting more of these soon.

Thanks for visiting my blog.

For more posts see my facebook page Kim Werfel Portraits and Fine Art.








Tuesday, August 11, 2015

The Mystic

I'm currently exploring the theme of women empowered by using their skills, be it playing a musical instrument or just completely at home in their own skin...happy and busy being themselves. 

This woman was spinning these small metal hoops and I liked the way the light was catching them and her intent look as she balanced them. She was caught up in her skill and I love her Renaissance Fair costume.   


"The Mystic", 13"x10",pastel on Uart©KimWerfel

 I was trying to work her to a 9x12" for easy framing...but I always seem to want to push further.

This was tough with all the detail, but I'm happy with the result.  Next time I may go a bit larger.

Thanks for following my blog and happy painting!

Kim Werfel

www.kimwerfel.com

Sunday, June 21, 2015

Woodland Bunny

You never know when inspiration for your next painting will come from.....

While walking my bichon frise Summer one morning, my neighbor stopped to show me a photo of a rabbit that we believe has been eating our flowers.  It hasn't been proven in court yet, but the evidence is stacking up.

She got a good close-up as he was right outside her window.  When I asked to paint him, she generously sent me her photo.  After cropping in and playing with color I came up with "Woodland Bunny".


"Woodland Bunny", pastel, 5x7"©KimWerfel

He's painted on gatorboard treated with an Art Spectrum Terracotta pastel surface.  I love the way the color pops when you use cools on a warm surface.  He's a charming little rascal.  People on facebook have asked for cards or prints.  I'll be making some cards soon.

The Rabbit is an astrological animal in China linked to the moon and good fortune.  Maybe my Woodland Rabbit will be lucky for me!

Thanks for reading my blog.

Kim Werfel

Monday, June 8, 2015

When Women Waken - Deer Spirit

I am thrilled that three of my paintings are in When Women Waken, a journal of poetry, prose and art by women. The June issue is about wildlife. 

Thank you to Anora McGaha for including my work in this beautiful on-line magazine. 

Click here to see the issue and my submissions:  http://www.whenwomenwaken.org/deer-spirit-by-kim-werfel

My first submission is "Deer Spirit", my very first pastel deer portrait.





I had just moved into my new home in Chatham County, and was amazed and totally captivated by these astoundingly beautiful and graceful wild beings that appeared outside my windows.  
This "teenaged" fawn was outside my office when I took her photo.  The blue asphalt of the street behind her was changed into water and I found myself softening the edges around her unconsciously creating a halo effect.
This was different from anything I had painted before, as I usually paint quite realistically.  I decided to leave it looking a bit ethereal, I liked the effect.
The first person to see her during the Chatham Studio Tour that year bought her.  I was actually kinda sad to see her go.  This, of course, lead to more deer paintings.
So exciting to be included in this on-line magazine!
Kim



Wednesday, June 3, 2015

30 Seconds of Fame on U-Tube

It may sound silly, but I'm excited to see myself on U-Tube during the reception of the 4th Annual North Carolina Juried Pastel Exhibition.


unflattering photo of Eric & I at the reception :) 


I'm receiving my award (which I redeemed today for a 18 pastel set of Unison Brown Earth pastels!)

Check it out here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?t=423&v=DGLSEbLpmTE

I show up at about 6 minutes 23 seconds for about 30 seconds.  Probably no one but my brother will look at this, but it made my day!

Got to get into the kitchen and make dinner!

Thanks for following me!

Kim

Sunday, May 24, 2015

2015 NC Statewide Pastel Exhibition



Proud to report that not only did I get into the 2015 Annual NC Juried Statewide Pastel Competition with "Gypsy", but received a Jack Richeson Gift Certificate for $125!  Was delighted they selected this unusual portrait over my more conventional entries.


"Gypsy", pastel, 6x20" ©KimWerfel


To view the 2015 NC Statewide Pastel Competition now at "The Art Shop" gallery in Greensboro, NC through June 16th, click on their website here and see the 100 entries online (selected from 250) The Art Shop.

It was a beautiful reception, complete with ordeurves (I made 5 dozen Caprese skewers with mozzarella cheese, grape tomatoes, basil and balsamic vinaigrette for the cause).  

There was beautiful music by a wonderful harpist and over 200 people at the biggest pastel event in North Carolina this year!

If you're nearby and get a chance, don't miss out on this beautiful exhibition!

Thanks for reading!

Kim

http://www.kimwerfel.com 




Sunday, April 19, 2015

Solo Art Exhibit and New Advanced Pastel Class


Carol Woods in Chapel Hill is hosting my upcoming solo exhibit of 25 artworks in building 5.
Show runs from April 24th - May 29th, with the reception and artist's talk Friday April 24th from 4:30-5:30pm.

For a preview of the Exhibit check the U-Tube link here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za6Zp6wlcWU

Would love to meet you there!


"

"Creekwood Path", pastel, 12x9"©KimWerfel


For those that already know the basics of pastel my "Continuing Pastel Painting Studio Class #2037" begins at the ArtsCenter of Carrboro Thursdays April 30th and runs til May 28th from 10am-12:30 in my regular classroom behind the stage (I hope)



This course is for the intermediate to advanced pastel student who wants critiques as they work on their own subject matter. Elements and principles of design are kept in mind as the students learn to apply compositional rules to their work for maximum results.
Classes start with group critiques and discussions with the rest of the class time working with individual help through class.





Time working outside class speeds results.
Basic understanding of pastels or Intro to Pastel Painting is required. Not for beginners.
Bring your pastels and photos you're working with to class and we'll brainstorm a composition together to create your vision.

Email me at k-e@mindspring.com with any questions. I'll be taking a teaching break over the Summer, and look forward to seeing you.

best regards,

Kim Werfel

Friday, March 6, 2015

Celebrate Spring with a Pastel Class!



The second set of classes this year at the Seymour Center in Chapel Hill starts this Monday, March 9th from 1-3pm. Sign up today, or Monday morning before class.

You may work on your own projects, or I'll have something new for you to get you in the mood for warmer weather!





Connect with your tribe of other pastel artists & work on your own artwork with guidance
or follow me with a new project. Sanded paper will be needed...you can buy a pre-made foam core board with a Sanded Surface from me for $3 or bring your own sanded paper.

Join us starting this Monday March 9th at the Seymour Center in Chapel Hill, 2551 Homestead Rd, NC 27516

Call them for registration info at 919 542-6495. $75 - 5 wks.

Questions? e-mail me at k-e@mindspring.com

See you Monday!

Kim

Saturday, February 14, 2015

Gypsy


While visiting my frame shop on Halloween, I snapped a photo of one of the costumed employees and finally got around to painting her pastel portrait. I decided to use my new favorite surface, suede mat board, but this one was a dark gray...much harder (I found out) to make light creamy skin tones on! 



"Gypsy", 15" x 20", pastel ©Kim Werfel


This surface is not forgiving and I doubt if I will ever do another portrait on the dark color. 
A learning experience, but fun.  It works really well depicting animal's fur.  

She told me she was a pirate, but I prefer to call this "Gypsy".

Thanks for following my blog!

Kim

www.kimwerfel.com

Sunday, February 8, 2015

Ramsay

Meet "Ramsay", a beautiful dog with soulful eyes who lives in my town here in Pittsboro.  Ramsay's "Mom" had me paint him from one of his "Dad's" photos....Dad is studying photography and provided me with an wonderful shot here that helped me capture his spirit so well.



"Ramsay", 11"x14", pastel ©Kim Werfel


This artwork is painted on archival suede matboard, a newer pastel substrate for me that works wonderfully to capture the softness of fur while still maintaining vibrant color.  

A variety of pastels are used here...mostly Terry Ludwigs, but also some Rebrandts and  New Pastels.  A joy to paint!




A happy client that said I exceeded her expectations is my best reward.  I love painting pets for loving owners!  

Contact me to have your furry companion painted today.


Kim

www.kimwerfel.com

Friday, December 5, 2014

People's Choice Award!



Whoo - Hoo! 

"Swans" won an honorable mention
at tonight's Central Carolina Community College 22nd Annual 
Chatham Artist Guild's Exhibition!

People's Choice Award! 

Thank you to all who turned out an voted for me!
 Feelin' the love!




Come visit me on the Chatham Artist's Guild Tour 

Tomorrow and Sunday only

Dec. 6 &7 from 10 am - 5 pm

Visit their site for a map at www.ChathamArtistsGuild.org 

See you at my studio!

Kim