The Butler Institute of American Art in Youngstown is presenting “Enduring Brilliance,” an exhibition of 31 pastel paintings sourced from the Pastel Society of America’s annual show, through May 3, 2026. The works are on display in the museum’s Flora B. Giffuni Gallery of American Pastels, the only museum gallery in the United States dedicated exclusively to pastel artwork.

The selection was curated by Louis Zona, director emeritus of the Butler Institute, who described pastels as “probably the most difficult media within the world of art.” The exhibition originated from the Pastel Society of America’s flagship annual show at the National Arts Club in New York. Among the works on display is “Splish Splash” by artist Vic Mastis.

The Pastel Society of America was founded in 1972 by Flora B. Giffuni, whose generosity also established the Butler’s dedicated gallery in 2004. The society is credited with helping revive interest in pastels in contemporary American art. The Butler Institute of American Art is located at 524 Wick Ave., Youngstown.

Source: Business Journal Daily