Pastels Series is Back For 2026

One of AARP Wyoming’s most popular online offerings is back for 2026, as its four-part series, “Improve Your Soft Pastel Skills 2.0,” is now open for registration.

In this four-session series, you’ll learn new techniques, build on what you know, and develop your personal style. Create French countryside landscapes, pets, and bold florals using the provided patterns—no drawing needed. Sessions are recorded, and helpful tips, advice, and critiques are included.

The events are free, but registration is required. There is no requirement to be an AARP member to take part. Simply sign in to your aarp.org account and register by clicking here. Attend as many or as few of the series as you like.

The series kicks off on January 10, with Lesson 1, titled “The French Countryside Landscape." The French countryside with water. Choose from 2 different scenes: either a lake or a rippling stream. Add in reflections, rocks, trees and cloudy skies. We might even try an ocean wave on the French coastline.

On January 17, the second lesson, titled "The French Countryside Close Up," will allow participants to choose from beautiful scenes of buildings, towers, and gardens up close.

January 24’s lesson is titled, “Getting The Texture Just Right.” The right texture makes things look realistic. Pet fur, hair, silver, wood, fruit, vegetables, etc. Learn how to get it looking exactly like your subject. This is a great week to ask your questions. Pastel PENCILS would be handy this week.

The series concludes on January 31 with a lesson on "Wild and Wonderful Florals." This event will discuss color, petal techniques, shading and blending backgrounds.

Click here to access the class folder - syllabus, tracings, and handouts.

Explore other Wyoming events and visit AARP Wyoming on Demand to view recordings of any classes.