Q+A: Colored Pencil Society of America District Chapter 212

From Wednesday, February 25, to Sunday, April 5, the Tucson J is excited to welcome the Colored Pencil Society of America’s District Chapter 212 (Phoenix and Tucson) to our Fine Art Gallery for Fine Art Gallery for “Rhapsody in Hue.” 


The exhibit beautifully showcases the diverse artistic expression achieved through the medium of colored pencil by highlighting the unique experiences and styles of each artist. The meticulous layering process involved in colored pencil work not only takes time but also reflects the artist’s excitement, dedication, and love for their craft. The Colored Pencil Society of America plays a vital role in elevating the medium’s recognition and providing valuable resources for artists.
 


Keep reading to learn more about the show and CPSA!
 

ABOUT THE SHOW: 


This exhibit beautifully showcases the diverse artistic expression achieved through the medium of colored pencil by highlighting the unique experiences and styles of each artist. The meticulous layering process involved in colored pencil work not only takes time but also reflects the artist’s excitement, dedication, and love for their craft. The Colored Pencil Society of America plays a vital role in elevating the medium’s recognition and providing valuable resources for artists.

About CPSA District Chapter 212

With over 70 members in Arizona and beyond, artists utilize a range of art styles and experience, predominantly working in colored pencils. The group strives to elevate the medium, educate others about it, and encourage innovation with the use of colored pencils. We are part of the national non-profit organization, the Colored Pencil Society of America (CPSA). 

 

Can you share your creative process, both in the studio and in shaping the overall vision for the show? 

Most of our artists in the group use a reference photo for their creative foundation, but it is what they do with the image that is most fascinating. Whether the artwork is stylized, photo realistic, or abstract, our show will leave its audience inspired. 

What themes are you exploring in this show, and why are they important to you? 

Rhapsody in Hue is a show that celebrates color. Many emotions can be invoked by color, like love, joy, peace, and serenity. It is an element of art that people have strong feelings about. Most people have a favorite color, or a personal experience associated with a color, whether we are aware of it or not. Our chapter wants to share our excitement for the power of color and how it can be used beautifully in a work of art. 

How do you hope viewers feel after experiencing the show? 

We hope the viewers feel inspired by our exhibit and uplifted by our creations. I hope that they leave with a new appreciation for the medium and perhaps want to try it out for themselves. Most people have used colored pencils at some time in their lives, but after a few lessons on colored pencil techniques, the sky is the limit. We are an encouraging group of artists who welcome artists of all levels, whether they are beginners or professionals. 

Why are you excited to share your work at the Tucson J? 

We are excited to exhibit at the Tucson J because our group would like to reach a broad audience and exhibit our work in a beautiful venue. Our mission is to elevate our medium to fine art standards and to share the experience and collaboration of our community of artists. 

 

Everyone is invited to an opening reception on Sunday, March 15, from 2-3:30pm, featuring light refreshments and artist talks.


In connection with the show, the Tucson J is offering fine art colored pencil classes, taught by artists from CPSA!