About the Artist

Patti Christensen obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Nevada, Reno. 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. Most recently, two paintings have been juried into the upcoming 2009 'Pastels USA' 23rd International Exhibiton at the Triton Museum, San Jose, CA. Her painting, 'Take Five!' won the Pastel Painters of Maine award. 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 Pastels in Light and Membership shows.

Patti teaches privately; she is also a part-time instructor for Nevada Fine Arts and Truckee Meadows Community College. 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

My work is always an introspective response to my emotions about any subject. I enjoy the challenge of creating a story or mood and often switch from painting in my studio to painting en plein air.

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, discoloring, or fading.

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.