I am one of those artists who loves history, and especially if I have a touch-point, or some connection, with the past. The more distant the connection is to the past, the sweeter.
1865-1906: Henri Roché (father) takes over the "Maison"
It is exciting to deliver this link from La Maison du Pastel, in Paris. Nobody else has the rich history of the pastel company of M. Henri Roche. What is history, without character? These sticks have that, and I am finding it out for myself by trying out 15 of the sticks in my studio.
I am a very intuitive pastelist, or I try to be. I don't go forward very scientifically, or in an organized fashion. How do I find the new sticks? It is an emotional response. The range of textures and the purity of the hues in these pastels are not found in any other stick that I have tried. They are the secret weapon; the game changer in any picture. My respect for what will happen when I use them is estimable, because they offer the opportunity for very high intensity. If you haven't observed by now, let me tell you that intensity is the focus of my contemporary work.
There you have it. The circle has been completed: the past can speak to the present, if you will just listen quietly.
boîte Degas
Images: the website of La Maison du Pastel.
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4 comments:
I really enjoyed this post. You feel towards your art the same way that I feel toward mine. Keep posting!
Many thanks, Katherine. We want our art to be authentic - that says it.
Casey, great post. I am in complete
agreement regarding Roche's historical factor and the connection I feel to art history. Here in my shop when I look at my display and can sample them from time to time it becomes quite evident that the pastels are unlike any other, and there are some excellent pastels on the market to choose from. Isabelle Roche should be congratulated on breathing new life to this incredible product. As only one of 4 Roche retailers in the world I feel the new half stick sets will really encourage pastel artists to try them out.
I look forward to meeting you this June for our workshop. 1 spot remaining
Regards,
Edward (Pastel Studio Canada)
You are amazing casey! I love seeing that very special box of Degas. thanks for the treat.
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