A Pastel Odyssey: Chasing Color and Light in the Aegean

In 1988, I embarked on a three-month art pilgrimage to the Aegean. I felt out of sorts, weary of the expensive, difficult, and often unappealing life in Los Angeles. I was there to develop my art career. However, I held a strong disdain for the contemporary art galleries and museums, finding them inundated with what I saw as postmodern mediocrity.

I sensed a need for change, even though I wasn’t certain of its form. An extended trip, dedicated to daily pastel drawings in Greece and partly in Turkey, seemed like the perfect opportunity to clear my mindset. The Aegean’s beauty surpassed all expectations, and I was humbled by the incredible hospitality I encountered and the fascinating people I met. Little did I know that I would return six years later to make it my home.

This book narrates that pilgrimage, meticulously documented through 97 pastels, each completed within an hour. Through these visual pieces, I revisit my experiences and reflect on various aspects of working with pastels.

In the pages of A Pastel Odyssey: Chasing Color and Light in the Aegean, you’re invited to share in my journey of self-discovery and artistic growth. Through 97 pastel creations, each capturing a moment’s essence, this memoir unveils the transformative power of embracing beauty and culture. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or an explorer of life’s vibrant tapestry, this book promises to be an inspiring expedition into the heart of the Aegean’s captivating allure. Join me in chasing color and light across these pages, and experience the magic for yourself.