Pastel painting demo offered during St. Charles Plein Air event
In conjunction with the St. Charles Arts Council Plein Air 2025 event, a pastel painting demonstration will be held on Tuesday, Aug. 19, with Brian Sauerland.
It will begin at 10 a.m. in the pavilion in Mount St. Mary’s Park, off Route 31. The demonstration is free and open to the public.
Sauerland first began working with pastels while attending the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design where he received a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in 1990. Since then, while pastels have been his primary medium, he also paints in oils concentrating mainly on landscapes for his subject matter. As an art teacher, he loves to inspire others and enjoys watching his students grow.
I want people to notice and appreciate the beauty of things seen in everyday life. I’m inspired by nature and try to capture its essence through my paintings. I see my work as snapshots and moments in life and hope to connect with viewers who share my same admirations.
Born and raised in Illinois, his childhood memories often revolved around nature and the outdoors. His family would go camping where he would explore the many trails and wooded terrain found in Illinois and Wisconsin. While visiting his grandparents in the outskirts of St. Louis, he and his siblings would wander through the woods behind their apartment looking for adventure.
As vice president of the Chicago Pastel Painters, he helps to educate others while raising awareness and appreciation for all the pastel medium has to offer.
To learn more about the Plein Air event, visit stcharlesartscouncil.org.