The initial inspiration can vary.
It might be the desire to use a range
of colors, an object, to investigate a
theme (often the advance of time, or
solitude), to create an ambiance, an
atmosphere. Sometimes there’s a note
of humor. I paint according to my cur-
rent enthusiasms; right now, candles
seem to be a regular feature.
Q: How has your work been received
by the public?
A: I’m often complimented and
regularly receive awards in the salons
in which I exhibit, which is always a
pleasure. Mind you, those who don’t
like my work probably don’t tell me.
Last year, I was surprised and honored
to have been a prizewinner at the
Giverny pastel salon, and again in
Pratique des Arts magazine’s annual
roundup of pastelists.
With regard to the feedback that
I’ve had, the reaction is mainly to the
sharpness and the precision of the
DavidDecobert(daviddecobert.fr)
wasborninParis,in1967,and
stilllivesinthecity,practicinghis
art.Asa child,Decobertfound
himselfattractedtodrawingsince
it requiredlittlesocializing.He
eventuallyvisiteda pastelexhibition
inParisinthelate1990sthatdrew
himtothemedium.Theartistis self-
taughtandfocusesontheeffectsof
edges,lightandshadow.Decobert
enjoyssharinghisworkwiththe
publicinexhibitions.features. Some viewers have trouble
realizing that it’s all done with
pastels. It amuses me to see visitors
look at my work and get closer and
closer until they finish with their
noses up against the painting.
I don’t exhibit in galleries, nor have
I made any approaches. I don’t initiate
any business and choose to let oppor-
tunities come (or not) as they may. I’m
not a pushy person, and I’m satisfied
with what I’ve been able to achieve.
I spend a lot of time alone in front
of the easel. Even if it’s a pleasure, it’s
also a time for doubts and reflection.
I try to surprise myself as well as those
who visit the exhibitions. Nowadays,
I’m enjoying moments of exchange
and sharing, which wasn’t the case
when I started. PJNiall O’Neill (pastelprogress.blogspot.com)
is a pastel artist and freelance writer. His
artwork is represented by the Lavit Gallery,
in Cork, Ireland.ArtistsNetwork.com 43