Lopez artist Steve Hill, an award-winning plein-air landscape painter, is featured in Kennedy Publishing’s new book, “Best of American Pastel Artists Volume II.”

Hill makes annual extended painting trips to Europe and especially enjoys working in Portugal, Spain, France, Italy and Croatia where he teaches annual 10-day painting workshops.

The following is from the exhibition catalog of the 24th Annual Chelsea International Juried Fine Art Competition held at Agora Gallery, New York, August 2009. The Juror was Ira Goldberg, Executive Director of The Art Students’ League of New York.

“Working in the traditional method of plein-air painting, Steven R. Hill’s works on paper have the vital, effervescence of the outdoors. Beautifully capturing the subtle nuances of natural light, Hill’s paintings incorporate lush, organic colors with sumptuous textures and energetic gestures. Using pure pigment pastel as his medium, Hill’s works have a characteristic softness that lends itself perfectly to his chosen subject matter. Rendering the landscape in all its natural glory, Hill’s works present a harmonious and peaceful look at the relationship between man and nature.”

The “Best of America Pastel Volume II” features 123 outstanding American artists in a two volume soft cover book. The works of each featured artist are displayed over two full-color pages and includes their contact information and gallery representation.