Member Activities & Benefits

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​At the Pastel Guild of Europe (PGE), our mission is to unite pastel artists through inspiration, education, and healthy competition. Whether you are a seasoned professional or just beginning your journey with the medium, our activities are designed to help you grow.

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The "Get Dusty" Challenges

Consistency is key to artistic growth. We host ten "Get Dusty" challenges each year, inviting members to submit up to two paintings based on a specific theme.

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• Professional Feedback: Every challenge features a guest judge who selects the top three works and provides "Special Mentions" for standout pieces.

• Recognition: Winners receive a certificate and a modest prize, with the full judging process and results featured in our journal.

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The Pastel Scribbler

Our online journal, The Pastel Scribbler, is the heartbeat of our community. It is much more than a newsletter; it is a learning resource where:

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• Judges Reveal Their Logic: We go behind the scenes with our challenge judges to understand their decision-making process—invaluable insight for anyone looking to enter major international competitions.

• Peer-to-Peer Learning: Members share their personal techniques, studio insights, and tips.

• A Warm Welcome: We use the Scribbler to introduce our newest members, ensuring no one stays a stranger for long.

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Live Demonstrations & Learning

Stay at the forefront of the medium with our live demonstrations. Using modern teleconferencing technology, we bring experienced pastel artists directly to your studio.

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Can’t make it live? All sessions are recorded and added to our archive, allowing members to watch and learn at their own pace, anytime.

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"Dust Off" – Our Biennial Open Competition

Every two years, the PGE hosts Dust Off, a prestigious international online competition that attracts talent from across the globe. 2026 marks our 5th edition, and it is our most ambitious yet, featuring multiple themes and a substantial Grand Prize to be announced later in the year.

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Member Advantage: While the competition is open to all artists, PGE members receive a significant discount on entry fees. This benefit alone often covers a large portion of the annual membership cost, making it easier than ever to get your work in front of our international jury.
 

A Supportive Community

Art can be a solitary pursuit, but it doesn't have to be. We provide multiple ways to connect:

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• Member Forum: A dedicated space for exchanging technical advice and encouragement.

• Facebook Group: A vibrant, alternative space to share your latest work-in-progress and chat with fellow artists in real-time.
   

Global Reach: Our IAPS Affiliation

The Pastel Guild of Europe is a proud member of the International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS). This prestigious affiliation connects our members to the global pastel community and provides exclusive professional opportunities:

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• International Competition Entry: Your PGE membership entitles you to enter the world-renowned IAPS exhibitions and competitions.

• Global Recognition: This is a vital stepping stone for artists looking to achieve international "Master Circle" status or simply to see their work hanging alongside the best in the world.