BEDFORD, NY.- Every two years the elite of the portrait-painting world gather in Connecticut at the prestigious Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists’ FACES OF WINTER Festival. Portraits are exhibited; those not housed in permanent collections in galleries, board rooms, government buildings, or private homes are offered for sale to the public. Artists take classes, and the very best artists are asked to teach their technique. This year, the Connecticut Society of Portrait Artists has invited award-winning Bedford artist, Laurel Boeck, to exhibit her work “Roger” and to teach at FACES OF WINTER 2010.

Laurel Boeck, known for her portraits of the influential and powerful, recently completed the officially commissioned portrait of Retired Speaker of the House Dennis Hastert. She is currently painting the official portrait of the U.S. Congressman from California Tom Lantos and Judge Judith Kaye for the New York Appellate Court. Ms. Boeck has been a CSOPA advisor for several years.

CSOPA Co-Chairperson Cindy Wagner lavished praise on artist Laurel Boeck, “Laurel is an incredible artist and teacher. As a CSOPA advisor, she has been a dedicated friend and instructor. Finding a teacher like her….with such a high level of skill and technique is invaluable.”

Ms. Wagner also touted this year’s Festival. “FACES OF WINTER 2010 will exhibit the work of the most accomplished portrait artists nationwide. We received more submissions this year than ever. The word has gotten out about the quality and professionalism of our show.”

This year’s Festival will take place in a beautiful new venue at the University of Connecticut, Stamford Campus, from February 5 through March 6. The Festival’s Opening Reception will be held Friday, February 5, from 7-9PM. Exhibiting artists, including Ms. Boeck, will be available to answer questions about their work and to explain the process of commissioning a portrait. The public is welcome to attend free of charge.

The Festival will continue with two days of classes and panel discussions. Ms. Boeck’s demonstration will be held on February 6, and she will participate in panel discussions on both days. Artists of all levels are invited to attend and take classes. Pre-registration is required at the CSOPA website, www.csopa.org.