Pastels: Anatomy of a Cloud

Instructor: Mary Beth Sasso

Date(s): Saturday & Sunday, October 17 & 18, 2026

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Ages: 18+

Members: $108

Non-Members: $120

Registration deadline: October 13

Description:

Creating clouds with pastels may seem simple, but it can be challenging to render them convincingly. This class will guide you through the process and help you finally master this subject. You will explore the intricate details between color, the meaning of edges, shapes, and textures. Light temperature, the importance of values, and the effects of atmospheric perspective will also be explained. By the end of the class, you will create 2-3 breathtaking pastel landscapes inspired by the beauty of clouds. 

Materials:

• Please bring any artist-grade pastels you have available (Rembrandt, Sennelier, Unison, and other brands of soft pastels)
• Faber-Castell Kneaded Eraser
• Jack Richeson 710210 Artist Chamois 5x7
• 12" ruler
• 3M Scotch-Blue Painter's Tape (1/2" wide)
• 2 Bulldog Clips or clips
• UArt Sanded Paper 600 or 800 grit or Art Spectrum Colourfix or Clair Fontaine Pastel Mat for best results

Instructor Bio:

With over half a century of artistic expertise, Mary Beth specializes in teaching foundational skills in drawing, watercolor, and pastel painting. As an associate faculty member at Santa Rosa Junior College and a Kennedy Center Certified Teaching Artist, she has developed a curriculum that serves everyone from kindergarteners to adult learners. Having exhibited her fine art in both California and Connecticut, she brings a bicoastal perspective and deep professional experience to her students. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in her dual background as a veteran Graphic Designer and a certified yoga teacher. This allows her to guide students through both the technical “rules” of composition and the meditative “flow” of creation.

Instructor's website: http://marybethsasso.com

All workshops are held at the Five Points Arts Center, 855 University Drive

Workshops may be cancelled due to low enrollment if a minimum number of participants are not met. Registrants will be notified in advance and a refund or credit will be arranged (see workshop polices below for details).

Workshop Policies: Please review the terms of our workshop policies here