FAA Hosts Pastel Invitational Exhibition

The Frankfort Arts Association will present its First Pastel Invitational Exhibition, Journey into Pastels, beginning January 12, through February 22, 2020. This exhibition will feature the works of local pastel artists, Mary Ann Trzyna, Marikay Peter Witlock, and Ted Fuka, with a reception on January 12th, from 1p-3p. This exhibition is the second show for the FAA gallery, located at 21 Ash Street, Suite 7, in Frankfort, Illinois. Invited artists may submit up to nine original works of pastel art.
Mary Ann Trzyna’s paintings are about form, color & light. Her inspiration is the sights and colors of her everyday world.
Trzyna expressed that she was “impressed by how much has been accomplished in such a short time by the FAA, and delighted that the organization is focused on spreading the arts in the community.”
Mary Ann is teaching a 4-hour “hands on” soft pastels workshop for beginner to intermediate students. The workshop will include a discussion, samples, and a demonstration, on Wednesday, January 15, 2020, from 9am-1pm.
Marikay Peter Witlock started her painting career with oils, then jumped in to help a friend teach a pastel class. Witlock said her trick to her 25 years of teaching success was, “staying one chapter ahead of her students, always learning.”
“I love pastels so much because I get the same effects of oil, with more vibrancy. It is drawing and painting at the same time.” Witlock enjoys painting landscapes, within 5-10 miles of her own backyard, Chicago Heights. “Beauty is everywhere,” Witlock added, “all you have to do is open your eyes.”
Ted Fuka first discovered pastels in figure drawing classes while attending the American Academy of Art in Chicago. He later found the spontaneous medium to be a good choice in creating color studies for finished illustrations in his commercial art business. Fuka said,
“You can’t beat the location of the gallery and I like the idea of the intimate space,” expressed Fuka. “I am looking forward to being part of this show.”
Christina Cooley, Co-Founder and Secretary on the FAA Board of Directors, explained “The FAA Gallery is 100% volunteer run and is supported by memberships, and our generous donors. We are honored and pleased with our recent growth in volunteers and members.”
For more information about the Frankfort Arts Association including volunteer opportunities, gallery, classes, and/or membership with FAA , please visit www.frankfortarts.org.