Salem: Noted artist that loves to paint animals Sunday SPSA Demo Artist
October 15, 2014
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
An acclaimed artist who loves not only to create but also to show others the creative process will be the featured Demonstration Artist of the Month at Sunday’s Santa Paula Society of the Arts meeting
According to Virginia Gunderson of the SPSA, the works of guest artist Pamela Salem, who is particularly fond of painting animals, will also be featured at the Depot Upper Gallery (in the historic train stop located at the corner of 10th and Santa Barbara streets) for three months.
“Pamela will offer some wonderful pastel tips and techniques,” said SPSA President Kaye Ford.
The October 19 meeting will be held from 2 to 4 p.m.; the public is always welcome to attend the free meeting and enjoy the Demonstration Artist.
Salem grew up in Ventura, and at 16 enrolled in her first oil painting class.
After mastering the basic techniques of value and contrast, Salem’s interest expanded to pastels and watercolors.
“I love painting animals large and small,” said Salem. “I enjoy painting them in pastel because I feel like I am petting them... looking into their eyes as I brush their fur with my fingertips, imagining their lives and their secret thoughts.”
Salem I also enjoy painting seascapes and landscapes, “visiting places I have enjoyed or look forward to visiting... “
Salem found it “Very encouraging” when she was awarded 4th Place in Pastels at the Ventura County Fair... during just the first year as a professional.
In 2012, “I was honored to receive the prestigious Ada Callahan Award, from the Professional Art division which was both humbling and gratifying!”
Salem has also received honors in the annual Santa Paula Art & Photography Show and from the Harbor Village Gallery.
Her first solo show was entitled, “Jungle in Your Living Room” presented through the Buenaventura Art Association.
A member of the Buenaventura Art Association, Santa Paula Society of the Arts, and a signature member of the Pastel Society of the Gold Coast, Salem said “One of the really ‘fun’ aspects of my involvement with art has been the opportunity to present ‘demo’ sessions at various locations around the county. I get to show what I can do, explain various techniques, methods and materials, and hear what people have to say about what they like to see in art.
“It serves as a wonderful education for me,” said Salem, “and hopefully, for the community as well!”
Gunderson noted that the Upper Gallery has seen some changes: “We have established a portion of the South Wall where we honor one of our members by hanging a number of their pieces in a group,” such as the display now featuring works by Salem.
The Depot Gallery and Gift Shop is open Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m., and tours by appointment. The Gift Shop offers an array of unique, reasonably priced items from small paintings, crafts and fabric arts to sculpture, magnets and greeting cards, all original works by SPSA members.
Be sure to visit the society web page www.thespsa.com for more information.
