Welcome to Caprise’s Art Studio, where I share news and images of my pastel paintings. If this is your first visit to my website, I’d like to share a little about myself and my art.
About Caprise
I work primarily in pastels but also explore oil and pencil. I’ve been passionate about art since a very young age and began collaborating and studying with other artists at the age of sixteen at Studio in The Woods in Wauconda, IL.
I have an Associate’s Degree in Fine Art from the College of Lake County and won several awards throughout my career. After a 20-year break to raise a family, I returned to my practice at Mainstreet Art Center in Lake Zurich, IL.
My new studio is in Arkansas on Petit Jean Mountain, an area adjacent to the Arkansas River between the Ouachita Mountains and Ozark Plateaus. You’ll find much of this area represented in my work.
The Petit Jean Mountain Art Guild recently gathered for our second meeting, and once again, I was reminded how fortunate we are to be surrounded by such a rich community of artists and crafters here on the mountain.
There’s something special about coming together, sharing stories, techniques, and the passion that fuels each of us in our creative journeys. No two artists approach their work the same way, and that’s what makes these gatherings so inspiring. Each conversation opens the door to a new way of seeing and creating.
During this meeting, we explored the art of Shibori, a hands-on and beautifully unpredictable dyeing technique. The magic lies in the experimentation—using everyday items like marbles, popcorn kernels, rubber bands, and more to manipulate fabric and create one-of-a-kind patterns. Each piece revealed its own surprise, a reminder that creativity often thrives when we let go of control and embrace the unexpected.
Watching the process unfold sparked a thought: what if I brought this idea into my own work? Could I apply a Shibori-inspired approach to canvas, layering paint over texture and pattern to create something entirely new? It’s an exciting possibility—one that invites play, curiosity, and discovery.
Whether it’s painting, cooking, gardening, or any creative pursuit, there’s joy in trying something new—especially when there’s no pressure for perfection. Just the freedom to explore.
Until next time, I hope you find joy in experimenting with what you love.
Evelyn and I would like to thank everyone who stopped by our mother/daughter show, Architecture – Rust – Treasures. It was truly a pleasure to share our work and artistic journey with all who attended. We were especially touched by the conversations we had throughout the exhibit—hearing how certain pieces resonated with you, what captured your attention, and the curiosity behind how each work came to life. Those exchanges add new meaning and energy to what we create, and we’re so grateful for that connection.
If you were unable to attend, you can explore our online galleries here:
Third Friday Argenta Art Walk is BACK Friday, March 20, 5 to 8 PM
Swipe through some highlights from February’s Art Walk, the crowds, the art, the energy! Next up, don’t miss our newest gallery exhibition “Architecture, Rust, Treasures” by Caprise Cooper and Evelyn Laurence at Argenta Library
This mother and daughter exhibition celebrates hidden beauty in weathered objects, reclaimed treasures, and overlooked architecture and features a special third generation artist, 7 year old Bearrett Laurence.
Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM | Free to the public
Come explore the gallery, see the stories behind the art, and feel the magic of Art Walk in Argenta. You will not want to miss it
It is an honor to exhibit once again with my daughter, Evelyn Laurence. We’ve been working hard for the last two years to prepare for this show. We cordially invite you to attend the Opening Reception and help us celebrate!
Where: Argenta Library Gallery, 420 Main Street, North Little Rock
When: Meet the Artists at the Opening Reception, March 20, 2026, at 5:00 – 8:00 pm
Architecture, Rust, Treasures (ART) is an exhibition that explores the wonders of nature and the hidden treasures found within the landscapes that connect us. This collection reflects a shared passion for discovering lost, weathered, reclaimed subjects and reimagining them as something new.
ART is a mother-and-daughter exhibition that celebrates the beauty hidden in our world, from forest finds to overlooked architectural details. Through a variety of compositions and subjects, the artists express a deep appreciation for history, transformation, and the stories objects and places hold over time.
The exhibition features imagery of old structures that have existed for generations, some of which once belonged to our own family. A series of works inspired by rusted vehicles began with a 1951 Mercury converted truck bed discovered on our homestead. The collection moves across pastel, pencil, ink, and acrylic, reflecting the richness and versatility of our artistic voices.
Representing the next generation is seven-year-old Bearrett Laurence, the third-generation descendant of the Cooper family. He will be exhibiting in this show with his third painting, marking the continuation of a family tradition rooted in creativity.
ART is a celebration of imagination, craftsmanship, and the special bond between mother, daughter, and grandson, illustrating how a love of art is passed down through generations. We hope this exhibition—and the stories behind it—leave you inspired, moved, and deeply touched.
The show runs through March 20, 2026 – April 3, 2026. The Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 6 pm. Except March 30th and 31st.
It was both an honor and a humbling moment when my friend and fellow artist, Jean Lewis, asked to feature my rusty art in her monthly newsletter. I’m grateful for the opportunity and excited to share the full article here.
I first met Jean several years ago when she entered the Arkansas Pastel Society National Show. We quickly connected — not only through our shared love of art, but also through our Chicago roots. Jean is a native Chicagoan, and I was born in Chicago and raised in the suburbs, which made our connection even more meaningful.
Since then, Jean has joined the Arkansas Pastel Society, and whenever she has a painting included in one of our exhibitions, she makes the trip to be part of it. Her dedication to her work and to the art community is inspiring. I highly encourage you to visit her website and explore her beautiful work.
I am truly blessed to live in a community where several artists reside—ten that I know of so far. Painters, potters, writers, pastelists, and artisans. This year, one of those artists invited us to gather and talk about how we might support one another. During that first meeting, I learned so much about each person’s journey and how art has shaped their lives and the lives of those around them. It was fascinating to hear how different each path was, yet how many common threads emerged: passion, a commitment to learning, a deep yearning to create, and a desire to share our experiences.
The outcome of that initial gathering was a shared agreement that we should continue meeting. Even though our mediums vary, there is so much we can offer one another across disciplines—how we work through artist’s block, the courage to try a new medium, opening our studios so we can experiment together, and opportunities for shows, just to name a few. We are still defining our purpose and even deciding on a name, but the foundation feels meaningful and strong.
I’m very much looking forward to our next meeting.
Wishing you all a safe, happy, and prosperous New Year! Recently, I reflected on the joys and gratitude of the past year, and now I’m excited to share what’s ahead. I’m looking forward to the serendipitous moments that unfold along the way, opportunities to gather with fellow artists, plenty of experimentation, and the lessons that come with it all.
I’m honored to serve a second term as President of the Arkansas Pastel Society (APS).
I’ll also continue paying it forward by teaching at LifeQuest of Arkansas.
I’m especially excited to once again exhibit alongside my daughter in Architecture • Rust • Treasures at the Argent Library in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Opening Reception Friday, March 20 at 5:00pm – all are welcome.
This occurs during the Friday Art Walk in the Argenta District.
I will have a few pieces on display at Arts on Main in Van Buren, AR hosted by the Ozark Pastel Society.
Architecture • Rust • Treasures show will then move to the Rialto Gallery in Morrilton, AR
Opening Reception Thursday, May 21 at 4:00pm – all are welcome
This occurs during the First Farmer’s Market of the year.
June brings the International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) convention — the biggest pastel gathering on the planet! Artists from around the world will meet in Albuquerque, New Mexico for a week filled with workshops, demonstrations, art supply vendors, and the Pastel World Art Show.
I’m both honored and a little nervous to serve as Exhibition Chair this year. The role includes planning, organizing, assembling a team, hanging the show, walking the exhibition with the judge, and so much more.
July is our APS Non-Juried Member Show.
November is our APS Juried Member Show and Workshop with artist Aaron Scheurr
In between it all, I’ll be spending time in the studio, with family and friends, and embracing new adventures.
This is the time of year to pause and reflect. As I look back on the past year, I think about my art journey and ask myself some important questions: What did I paint? Did I try anything new? Did my work grow? And did I give back to my art community?
Experimenting & Learning
Experimentation continues to be a driving force in my work. While painting on canvas works well and helps me use the many canvases I have on hand, I’ve realized it doesn’t always produce the results I’m looking for.
One big win this year was priming paper with micaceous iron oxide acrylic and terra cotta pastel ground. The warmth and texture are a beautiful complement to the green landscapes I love to create.
I also discovered that both metallic watercolors and metallic acrylics work well for the underpainting of the truck, adding depth and interest early in the process.
Perhaps one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is knowing when to step back. When I reach the end of a painting, it’s important to give it time to breathe and not rush to call it finished.
Giving Back
Giving back to the art community has been one of the most rewarding parts of my year.
Sharing what I’ve learned with members of the Ozark Pastel Society and the Arkansas Pastel Society
Teaching at LifeQuest of Arkansas
Serving as President of the Arkansas Pastel Society
Each of these experiences brings me great joy. I learn so much from the artists I interact with, and teaching and leadership continually reinforce and strengthen my own skills.
Accomplishments
Winning awards is certainly an acknowledgment that the work I’m producing is strong—in composition, value, color, ability to draw the viewer in, and whatever else a judge may see. I’ve learned to soak in those moments, appreciate it, and then continue painting.
Not every painting can be a winner. Some end up in the trash or painted over entirely—and that’s okay. We are always learning.
My Favorite Paintings This Year
I get the most joy from painting scenes that capture a fleeting moment—ones that stir emotion, spark a memory, and invite the viewer into a quiet conversation with the scene.
Thank you for joining me on this journey. Your support and encouragement are powerful motivators, and I’m grateful to share this path with you.
I’m still in awe of all the incredible things that have unfolded during the Arkansas Pastel Society’s 11th National Juried Show Opening on November 21st.
To begin with, “Holmes 440 Wrecker” received an Honorable Mention,judged by the esteemed Colette Odya Smith—an honor that deeply encourages me in my artistic journey.
I’m also thrilled to share that I have earned Signature Status with the Ozark Pastel Society (OPS). This distinction is awarded by accumulating 12 points across several achievements, including:
Participation in a non-juried OPS exhibition
Receiving awards in juried OPS exhibitions
Acceptance into Regional, National, or International multiple-media juried exhibitions
Awards in National or International multiple-media juried exhibitions
Acceptance into Regional, National, or International soft pastel juried exhibitions
Earning Signature Status with the Pastel Society of America (PSA) or Master Circle Status with IAPS
Receiving awards in Regional, National, or International soft pastel exhibitions
Serving as an OPS Officer, Board Member, or Committee Chair
Another exciting milestone: “Hibernating” was selected for the Pastel Society of America’s Landscape Member Showcase, a recognition that means so much to me.
And the momentum for “Holmes 440 Wrecker” hasn’t slowed down. This piece continues to play a pivotal role in my artistic growth, having also earned:
International Association of Pastel Societies 2025 Spring Web Show – Open Division
14th Annual PleinAir Salon
Pastel Society of Southern California 7th Annual Make Your Mark
I am truly humbled and grateful for everyone who supports my work. Now, it’s back to the studio—where I’ll continue to experiment, learn, and create with renewed inspiration.
I am deeply grateful for my family, friends, admirers, and clients who continue to support me throughout this journey. Art is my passion; it is a creative expression from my soul, a way to share how I see the world, to find beauty in the ordinary, and to evoke emotion through each painting. Your encouragement, curiosity, and thoughtful suggestions keep me inspired and help carry me through the challenging artistic moments.
Wishing you and your loved ones a Happy and Blessed Thanksgiving.
Open Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM | Free to the public
Caprise Cooper Art 