Mission Statement

The Pastel Society of the Gold Coast is a non-profit organization for the specific purpose of providing public exhibitions for its members, to educate the community through collaboration with environmental and other non-profit organizations, and to promote the arts in general.




The Pastel Society of the Gold Coast, (PSGC), was founded in 2009 by Pamela Solakian (1958-2010), an accomplished artist who studied pastels under renowned Ojai artist, Bert Collins. It was in Bert’s monthly “First Saturday” pastel class that Pam and fellow students were inspired to form a pastel society. In fact, many of those students became founding members of the Pastel Society of the Gold Coast, and continue to meet at Bert’s studio on the first Saturday in Ojai.


The original small pastel society has grown into a membership of approximately thirty pastel artists of high caliber, who hail from Santa Barbara, Ventura, and Los Angeles counties. We utilize the unique, dynamic and diverse application of pastels to express the nature and beauty of the world around us, and that of our Gold Coast region in particular.


Pamela’s dedication to creating a vibrant society of like minded artists became her legacy. From the beginning, our focus has been to foster a supportive and dynamic environment for pastel artists. New and emerging pastel artists are encouraged to participate in PSGC shows and a variety of workshops, as well as to give back to the community by supporting local charities and other community projects. Monthly meetings often consist of friendly critiques,

news from the world of art, a chance to learn from each other, and build friendships.


New member artists are welcome and are juried in once a year. Visit our Membership Application page for more information about how to join PSGC.  


Slide Show of Artists Works


Click on images below to learn more about the artists.


Share by: