Artist Biography:

Awarding winning artist Lorraine Dye is a native Oregonian. Originally from Hood River, she has lived most of her life in Oregon. Lorraine works as an artist and is a member of the Salem Artist Association and Artist in Action. Lorraine has been a jury member for several shows, including recent 2023 Oregon State Fair Arts exhibit. Lorraine has received numerous awards for her work, and is currently exhibiting at the Bush Barn Art Center.

She began painting with pastels in 2005, and is self taught, taking a few classes along the way. Her impressionistic realism style incorporates strong contrast and vivid colors along with a broad spectrum of subjects ranging from still-life to landscapes and animals.

Over the past several years Lorraine has illustrated a book and has achieved acknowledgements in art shows. She has been commissioned and has had work accepted into the Oregon State Capital permanent collection along with a write-up in the Statesman Journal in 2013.

Artist Statement:

I paint in pastels, not by choice, but because that is what my mother-in-law used. A gifted artist in her own right, it was from her I inherited my supplies. I knew nothing about them until after my first painting class in 2005. It was then I suddenly realized something had been missing in my life. Painting makes me feel energized, creative and happy…it’s that simple!

I believe an artist needs to constantly experiment, grow and learn through every painting. I love my pastels for the vibrant colors they offer.

Stop and Smell the Flowers Pastel on Sanded Paper 18 x 22…$395

A view from the riverfront park on a dreamy Summer evening-Pastel on Sanded Paper 28 x 24…$650

Title Scarlet Sage of Bush Park Pastel on Sanded Paper 18 x 22…$295

The Valley’s Bounty Pastel 24 x 16…$300

Branches and Birds Pastel 8 x 8-vanished…$75

On the way to Short Sands Beach Pastel 26 x 32…$500