Jim Tyler paints exclusively with pastel.  Largely self-taught, he began working with pastel at an early age and began painting seriously in 2001.  Since that time he has been featured in Pastel Journal Magazine and has won awards at numerous national shows.  Jim has been awarded signature status with the Pastel Society of the West Coast and the Sierra Pastel Society, and is a founding member of the California Central Coast Pastel Society.  The artist’s distinctive style can be seen through his focus on lighting and composition.  The scenes that capture Jim’s eye consistently have strong lighting and deep shadows, and he uses the richness of pastel to capture that boldness in his paintings. Tyler regularly teaches pastel workshops in San Luis Obispo, CA. In addition to painting, Tyler is an award-winning photographer, specializing in B&W figure and portrait photography.