The Society of Creative Arts of Newtown (SCAN) will present Karen Israel demonstrating “Slice of Life” in pastel on Tuesday, September 8, at 7:30 pm, at Newtown Senior Center, 8 Simpson Street.

The demonstration is open to the public and admission is free.

Israel is an elected member of many art organizations including American Artists Professional League, Hudson Valley Art Association, Pastel Society of America, Salmagundi Club, and Lyme Art Association. She conducts many teaching demonstrations and workshops throughout the United States and she has served as juror for many national competitions.

Over the past 20 years Israel has garnered awards in many national juried competitions. Most recently, one of Israel’s paintings was selected as third place in the 2026 Pastel 100 competition-Figures/Portrait Division. Her work was featured in the March 2025 issue of American Art Collector. In past years, her work was featured in Pastel Journal’s Pastel 100 and Pratique Des Arts magazine.

Her work is held in private collections throughout the United States.

According to her artist statement, Israel strives to create an emotional experience for the viewer.

"I want my viewers to experience a sense of discovery," she said. “Each painting is a carefully constructed dialogue between form and color, where the rigors of formal design serve as the backbone for my artistic expression. I believe that every subject possesses its own inherent narrative, and it is my mission to render these stories with depth and emotion.

My paintings tell stories that resonate deeply with my own experiences and reflections. I hope that my work serves as a mirror, reflecting the diverse stories of those who encounter it, and inspiring a dialogue that transcends the surface.”

Reservations are not needed for SCAN programs but additional information may be available at SCANart.org.