Gary Blackwell, Oil and Pastel Artist You can reach Gary at 562.494.4090

 I have been drawing and painting most of my adult life. I received my Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Ringling School of Art in Sarasota, Florida. After my required stint in the army where I served as an illustrator, I finally settled in Southern California. I worked in advertising for 23 years as a Creative Director for a large corporation. During this time I never lost my focus on art. I continued painting and taking workshops to stay active.

In the 90's I became involved with pastels and joined a number of pastel organizations. I soon became a signature member of the Pastel Society of the West Coast. Within the absolute minimum three years the PSWC honored me with the coveted Distinguished Pastelist award. Today I am a full-time painter enjoying both studio and plein-air painting. I currently teach landscape painting and figure drawing as well as attend a number of juried plein-air events and give demonstrations.