Capricorn Coast artist Carole Elliott has been honoured on the world stage, with her artwork “Touched by the Tide” receiving the Lila Teich Gold Award at the Pastel Society of America’s (PSA) 53rd Annual Exhibition Enduring Brilliance in New York City. The recognition elevates Carole to the distinguished status of Master Pastelist – one of the highest international achievements in pastel art.
The award was presented on Friday, 19 September at the National Arts Club, where Carole’s painting also sold to a New York collector.
“Sharing with the world the beauty and essence of the Capricorn Coast, with its stunning natural flora and fauna, gives me great joy and satisfaction,” Carole said.
Carole has been painting for more than 30 years but only began entering international art competitions at the start of COVID. The Master Pastelist title crowns a string of major accomplishments, including Master Circle status with the International Association of Pastel Societies (IAPS) in November 2024.
Most recently, Carole was named a semi-finalist in the 18th International ARC Salon Competition, alongside fellow local international award-winning artist Lyn Diefenbach. With approximately 3,500 entries from across the globe, winners will be announced on 5 January 2026. Two of her works have also been accepted into The Almenara Art Prize Online Exhibition in the Still Life and Landscape categories.
In September 2024, her painting “Pearly Shells” was selected for exhibition with the PSA at the National Arts Club in New York, followed by display at The Butler Institute of American Art in Ohio in January 2025.
“Living in Capricornia gives me never-ending inspiration through the rich palette and diversity of subjects here on the coast,” Carole said. “Predominantly an ocean-inspired artist, I love zooming in on the little things people often walk past and hope my work brings people to appreciate the ocean and be more mindful when visiting our beautiful beaches.”
Carole is now preparing for her next local exhibition at Fig Tree Galleries, Yeppoon, in August 2026, alongside fellow award-winning Yeppoon artist Catherine Boreham.
She is also well known for her generosity, donating a large percentage of profits from her turtle paintings to the Quoin Island Turtle Rehabilitation Centre, while supporting other worthy causes each year.
Krista Brown, Tourism & Marketing Manager at Capricorn Enterprise, congratulated Carole on her success, saying:
“Carole’s achievements shine a spotlight on the incredible talent within our region. Art like hers doesn’t just inspire – it also helps tell the story of the Capricorn Coast to the world. Every international exhibition and award builds awareness of our destination, showcasing the creativity, lifestyle and natural beauty that make our region so special.”
Carole’s growing global following is proof that the beauty of regional Queensland is reaching audiences far and wide. “I now have collectors all over the world, which gives me the opportunity to showcase how amazing the Capricorn Coast and regional Queensland truly are,” Carole said.
Website: https://www.carolelliott7.com/
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