Philadelphia Pastel Society
• Member of the International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS)
• Current PPS membership is 127 pastelists and growing.
The Philadelphia Pastel Society is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 2019 by a group of Philadelphia area artists who are active in the soft pastel medium. We were established to fill a need long expressed by area artists who were looking for a way to share their love for pastel. We are seeking to provide a supportive community for artists where ideas are shared and educational activities benefit all. Together we hope to promote the soft pastel medium throughout our region.
Artists, from beginners to professionals, benefit from the many opportunities provided by PPS. Members learn about materials and techniques and grow in their abilities by observing demonstrations at Society meetings, participating in hands-on workshops led by nationally recognized instructors, and by attending other PPS events.
Members are invited to participate in both juried and open exhibitions at locations throughout the area.
Philadelphia Pastel Society Board Members
President: Blanche Levitt Torphy
Vice-President: Denise Vitollo
Secretary: Donna Streisfeld
Treasurer: Judy Kornfeld
Website Manager: Mary Rinderle Smith
Sponsorships and Hospitality: Kathy Apfelbaum
Instagram Manager: Ann Guidera-Matey
Membership: Pat Riley
Workshops: Mary Rinderle Smith
Exhibitions: Al Richards and Jack Lloyd
Plein Air Events: Pat Riley and Kathy Apfelbaum