Ipswich artists Karen Christensen and Benitta Harding are making their mark on the national arts scene while championing pastel art in their own community.
Christensen was recently named Pastelist of the Year by the Pastel Society of Australia, an honour awarded after she secured two first places and a second at the Society’s annual exhibition. Her work was judged by respected artists Deb Mostert and Lyn Diefenbach.
“It was a shock — a wonderful surprise,” Christensen said. “To be recognised across Australia is an amazing honour.”
Harding, who has worked with pastels since childhood, recently unveiled a portrait of boxing champion Jeff Horn. The project, created in collaboration with Horn’s anti-bullying initiative Bullyproof Australia, was met with overwhelming praise.
“When I first sent it to Jeff, he joked it felt strange to like a picture of himself,” Harding said. “But his wife thought it was a photo of the reference image — that was the best compliment I could get.”
The two artists have joined forces to bring pastel painting to the local community. They will host a hands-on pastel workshop on September 26 at the Ipswich Arts Workshop space between the Ipswich Art Gallery and Community Gallery. (Register Here)
“It’s a great chance to try pastels without the cost of buying all the materials,” Christensen said. “Everything is provided, so it’s easy to just come along and have a go.”
Both artists are also part of an upcoming exhibition at the Redcliffe Old Fire Station Gallery running October 1–26, showcasing master pastelists from across Australia with free demonstrations every Wednesday and Saturday.
Harding summed it up: “Pastel art has so much to offer. We want to share it with as many people as we can — whether they’re beginners or seasoned artists.”
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