YOUNGSTOWN.- The International Association of Pastel Societies represents pastel societies uniting in a common cause �to demonstrate the validity and quality of pastel fine art around the world. Membership is limited to qualified pastel societies. IAPS was founded in 1994 through the efforts of Urania Christy Tarbet. The Butler Institute of American Art, Youngstown, will host the 11th juried exhibition of the International Association of Pastel Societies. The exhibition will hang in the Flora B. Giffuni Gallery.

The International Association of Pastel Societies represents pastel societies uniting in a common cause—to demonstrate the validity and quality of fine art in pastel around the world. Membership is limited to qualified pastel societies. There are no individual memberships available. Only Member Societies are eligible to participate in certain IAPS activities. IAPS was founded in 1994 through the efforts of Urania Christy Tarbet.

IAPS sponsors annual competitions and exhibitions open to members of member societies. Artists accepted into specified events may accrue points towards IAPS Master Circle status.

Every other year, IAPS sponsors a convention where pastel artists from all over the world can gather to attend lectures, demonstrations, hands-on classes, explore the world of pastel materials in the trade show area, and enjoy the excitement of being part of the world community of pastel artists.

Pastel lends itself to any subject and any style. Throughout this site, you will see examples of the finest pastel paintings from around the world.

The International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) is a non-profit organization representing pastel societies uniting in a common cause — to demonstrate the validity and quality of pastel fine art around the world. The coming together of pastel societies provides a strong voice for pastel artists and the luminous medium of pastel. The foundation of IAPS is based on networking and sharing. Individual artists benefit and expand their knowledge through the IAPS society of their choice.