Blog

This year’s show includes several abstract and semi-abstract works that explore colour, movement, memory, or place in exciting and imaginative ways.

From Society Members to artists selected through the open call, these works highlight the range of approaches to abstraction within pastel, from structured compositions to more intuitive mark-making.

Society Members

The exhibition features abstract works by elected members of the Pastel Society, whose practices reflect years of experience in the medium.

Jeannette Hayes PPPS, Purple Sky

Jeanette Hayes creates abstract works inspired by the landscape around her Oxfordshire studio, particularly the Vale of the White Horse. Her compositions are built from layers of colour and mark-making, responding to both the physical qualities of the land and her emotional connection to it.

Susie Prangnell PS, Clinging to the Last Minute

Susie Prangnell’s abstract, non-representational work grew alongside a long period spent balancing creativity with everyday responsibilities. Largely self-taught, Susie draws on experimentation and personal reflection, using abstraction as a way to explore emotion and visual rhythm. Now based on the Isle of Wight, she continues to develop her practice and exhibit with the Pastel Society.

Miles Elliott, Visual Geometry in Tlön

Miles Elliott works across fine art, architecture, and contemporary dance. His recent abstract drawings are based on tracing the movements of dancers during live performances.

Anastasia Shulman, Chirography 7

Based in London, Anastasia Shulman’s practice is influenced by her interest in humanitarian studies, as well as colour and shape. Working with pastel and coloured pencil, she creates abstract compositions that balance thoughtful ideas with a strong visual presence.

Amy Labourne, Synthesis

Aimee Labourne lives and works in Shetland, where landscape plays a central role in her practice. Focussed in observational drawing, her work explores space, depth, and movement, often inspired by wilderness, rock formations, and natural textures.

Elena Putley, Harlow Carr Gardens, Warm November

Elena Putley was born in Moldova and now lives and works in Harrogate. Her work sits between abstraction and representation, often inspired by urban landscapes and city structures. Drawing on personal history and her family’s background in architecture and construction, Elena explores ideas of space, time, and change.

All works are currently available to browse and buy online

All works by the abstract works featured in the Pastel Society Annual Exhibition 2026 are available to browse and buy online. With works available at a range of price points, the exhibition provides an accessible way to collect abstract pastel works by both established and emerging artists.

Don’t miss the chance to see these exciting works in person before the exhibition closes on Saturday 7 February.