Pastel Podcast Episode 1: Kim Lordier

Pastel Podcast Episode 1: Exploring the Soulful Art of Pastel with Kim Lordier

Welcome to a vibrant journey through the world of pastel painting, where passion, technique, and personal stories intertwine to inspire artists of all levels. In this engaging conversation, hosts Lisa Skelly and Kari Stober, share their experiences, insights, and heartfelt connections to the medium. This article delves into the soulful artistry of Kim Lordier, one of the nation’s finest pastel plein air painters, exploring her approach, inspirations, and the unique magic she brings to her work. Kim is known for her generosity and warmth, qualities that make her not only a brilliant artist but also a beloved mentor and friend. Her approachable nature and encouragement have helped many artists overcome self-doubt and embrace their creative voices.

Meeting Kim Lordier: A Serendipitous Beginning

Kim Lordier’s story is not only about her mastery of pastel but also about the profound connections that art can foster. The first encounter for Lisa and Kim was serendipitous—sparked by a magazine cover featuring her work. Both Kim and Lisa shared a surprising commonality: they had been flight attendants. This unexpected link led to an invitation to a plein air event in Sonoma County, and eventually a lasting friendship. It’s a testament to how art can unite people.

Beyond her artistic journey, Kim shares an unusual family connection with co-host Kari Stober, the Mountain Meadows Massacre. Both descend from siblings who survived this tragic event during a wagon train journey to California.

The Soulful Essence of Kim Lordier’s Pastel Paintings

What makes Kim’s paintings resonate so deeply? The answer lies in the soulful quality she infuses into her work. She explains that there is no simple formula; rather, it’s about pouring oneself into each painting and blending foundational elements like value simplification and shape composition with personal expression.

Kim often employs an underpainting technique, especially for larger studio pieces, which helps her build a strong tonal foundation before layering pastel. In plein air settings, she typically works directly with pastel, capturing the immediacy of the moment. Her process is patient and intuitive, allowing the painting to “talk” to her and evolve organically. For example, in one of her celebrated works, Baby, It’s Cold Outside, she used a Fibonacci spiral to refine the composition, patiently waiting to add a subtle puff of breath that brought the scene to life.

From Illustration to Pastel: A Journey of Confidence and Discovery

Kim’s artistic path began early, painting animal portraits in pastel since she was 15. She initially pursued illustration but found the competitive environment intimidating. Later, she embraced plein air painting, starting with oils and adapting those techniques to pastel. A pivotal moment came during plein air sessions with her mentor Brit, who encouraged Kim to appreciate the power of simplified tonal shapes and to trust her emerging style.

Painting in the Field: The Joys and Challenges of Plein Air Pastel

Painting outdoors presents unique challenges and rewards. Kim’s approach to plein air pastel is to capture intimate scenes and color notes rather than finishing fully detailed paintings on site. Her plein air works often serve as studies or inspiration for larger studio pieces. She emphasizes the importance of stepping back frequently to observe the overall composition and values, a practice that helps maintain clarity and depth in the work.

Her friend Lisa Skelly recounts painting alongside Kim during a plein air workshop, marveling at Kim’s ability to see and capture elements in the landscape that others might miss. Kim’s vision and mark-making are described as a “dance” with the pastel sticks—fluid, gestural, and full of life.

The Dance of Pastel: Gesture, Movement, and Expression

Kim likens her painting process to a dance, where every stroke reflects the gesture and growth of the subject. She doesn’t paint individual details in isolation but captures the essence and movement of forms, such as the sway of grasses or the posture of horses. This approach imbues her work with a dynamic energy and emotional resonance.

Understanding and