News – Page 3 – Astrid Volquardsen

Pastel Journal 08/2011 - Home at Sea

5 Jul 2011

Feature in the Pastel Journal

by Astrid | 9

»Home at Sea«, Pastel Journal 08/2011 (c) The Pastel Journal I am very happy to let you know that my work is featured in the current issue of the Pastel Journal (August 2011). The interviews with the diverse pastel artists … Read More

19 Feb 2011

Interview in the Pastelscribbler

by Astrid | 6

Looking for something to read on a Sunday morning? Well, I might have something for your: The Pastel Guild of Europe had asked me to answer some questions for their newsletter. The February issue can now be downloaded. Grab a … Read More

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About me

I am fascinated by the light conditions of the countryside, particularly in Northern Germany. I grew up in Hamburg so I am used to the rugged countryside and sometimes bleak weather and light conditions. The light in northern country landscapes is very special and it is indescribably beautiful. It touches my soul and opens up my heart when I visit the coast and feel the elemental force of the sea.
As opposed to my seascapes, I am very interested in the closely cropped views of the harbor and its endless diversity of shapes and colors.

With pastel painting l have found the ideal medium to artistically and creatively transform these special conditions of illumination. I love to spread pigment on paper without anything else in between.
Pastel paintings come alive when you put different layers of colour on the canvas. This is a great artistic stimulus for me. Which combination of colour pigments can be used to achieve precisely the effect of light and shade that I want? During the artistic process, layers of colour are continually built up and removed until the light situation has been captured and the picture can unfold its unique illuminating power.