The Pastel Society of the Southwest was organized in 1979 to further education in, appreciation for, and encouragement of the use of the pastel medium. In the fall, PSSW holds an annual membership exhibition juried by a prominent, national artist.  This has become the highlight of the society's year, with 50 or more of the best works chosen to hang from many entries. Since the first exhibition in 1981, membership in the society has been required for entry, although the National Open Show in 1995, was the society's first competition open to all pastelists.  An Open Show was also held in 2000 and again in 2007.

There are six meetings per year, usually held on the second Sunday in March, April, May, September, October, and November, with programs to educate and instruct in the use of pastels.  Members receive the Pasteller Newsletter at periodic times to inform about upcoming PSSW events and the activities/awards of fellow members.

PSSW offers a workshop each year in the fall in conjunction with its membership show. It is usually taught by the artist who acts as the judge for the show.

Board Members and Chairs

President    Open
First Vice President    Marie Maines
Secretary    Joy Nguyen
Treasurer    Beth Shirley
Newsletter Chair    Marty Prakope
Membership Chair    Beth Jones
Workshop Chair    Robbie George
Workshop Assistant    Connie Erickson
Member Show Chair    Linda Smith
Member Show Assistants   Joanne Hawkins, Yvonne Boltz, Donna Williams
IAPS Representative    Robbie George
Telephone Comittee    Mary Ann Whittle, Donna Leeman
Hospitality    May Lorfing, Pat Bailey
Historian   Carol Epler
Publicity Chair    Judy Kay Maddox

Web Master  BJ Setzer