Award

10 Jun 2013

Daler-Rowney Award at the Pastel Society UK Exhibition

by Astrid | 30

Well, well, well. Where to start after this exciting afternoon with the opening of the annual exhibition of the Pastel Society UK in the Mall Galleries in London. It was such a surprise and honour to find out that I … Read More

23 Feb 2013

Pastel Journal Bronze Medal Award

by Astrid | 44

Blick zum Meer II, 30 x 125 cm, 2012 Pastel Journal Bronze Medal Award © Astrid Volquardsen sold I am proud to announce that I was awarded the bronze medal in the 14th Pastel 100 competition for my painting »View … Read More

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.