Pastel Podcast Episode 8: Karen Margulis

In Episode 8 of The Pastel Podcast, we sit down with award-winning instructor, and master pastelist Karen Margulis for an inspiring deep dive into the world of pastel painting. 🎨✨ Karen shares her journey from returning to art in her 40s to becoming an Eminent Pastelist with IAPS and a Master Pastelist with the Pastel Society of America. In this episode, she breaks down her signature approach to underpainting, alcohol washes, texture techniques, clear gesso, and the power of optical blending for vibrant, luminous color. You’ll learn how Karen builds expressive landscapes, why “the light touch is the right touch,” and how to create layers without making mud. She also talks plein air essentials, choosing pastels for travel, experimenting with surfaces, plus her thriving Patreon community packed with 500+ instructional videos. Whether you're a professional painter, aspiring pastel artist, or creative soul searching for pastel painting stories, tips, and inspiration, this episode is full of practical wisdom to elevate your work. 🎧 Subscribe for more pastel techniques, artist interviews, and creative inspiration! #PastelPodcast #KarenMargulis #PastelArtist #PastelPainting #PastelTechniques #PleinAirPastel #LandscapePainting #ArtPodcast #PastelArt #MasterPastelist #PastelInspiration #ArtEducation #PastelCommunity #OpticalBlending #Underpainting Techniques