About the Artist

Patti Christensen Woodard obtained her Bachelor of Art degree from the University of Nevada, Reno in 1976. In 2001, Patti returned to her art career choosing pastels as her medium for their brilliant color, permanency and tactile qualities. She has studied with a variety of distinguished pastelists.

Patti exhibits and competes in juried shows. In 2008, her work was included in the Pastel Society of the West Coast's 22nd Pastels USA International Open Exhibition at The Haggin Museum in Stockton, CA, the Stockton Art League's 55th Annual Juried Exhibition at The Haggin Museum, and the Pastel Society of the West Coast's membership show.

Patti teaches privately, and is a part-time instructor for Truckee Meadows Community College and Nevada Fine Arts. She is a member of the Pastel Society of the West Coast and Latimer Art Club. Her home and studio are located in Reno, Nevada.

Artist Statement

"Prior to turning 50, I said to myself, I have this talent; it's now or never, so I am going to go for it. You only live once, right? My work is an introspective response to my emotions or feelings about a subject. I can find subject matter for representational or whimsical still life to paint in my studio and then switch to plein air finding a more abstract and colorist view of the landscape. Ultimately, people and figures are consistently thrilling for me; I enjoy the challenge of capturing or creating a story."

The Integrity of Pastels

Pastel is the most misunderstood of all mediums. Often confused with chalk, which is limestone and dye, pastel is pure pigment ground and mixed with a liquid binding solution to form a paste. The paste is then molded into sticks and allowed to dry. The pigments used in forming pastels are the same pigments used in making oil paints. Painting with pastels is, in fact, painting with pure color; the pigments have lasting brilliance. When properly framed and cared for, a pastel painting is one of the most permanent of all mediums. There is no cracking or discoloring with age as with oil paintings.

About Giclées

Giclée printing offers one of the highest degrees of accuracy and richness of color available in reproduction techniques of original art. An image is reproduced on archival paper from a special printer that sprays the ink according to the digital image on file."Remarque" is defined as enhancement by the artist on some or all of the final prints within an edition. This added touch produces a one of a kind print.