Valerie's work reflects her belief that "life can be beautiful". "There is beauty all around us: in nature, in people and their cultures, in music and love. Valerie prefers to create paintings that are cheerful and uplifting rather than puzzling or depressing. "When I paint, the combination of color and the unpredictable nature of watercolor puts 'a song in my heart' and I hope that the viewer will also experience that feeling."

Valerie began painting while trying to encourage her youngest son to use his artistic abilities. She entered her first painting (a small oil) in a local juried art show and not only was accepted but won an honorable mention. In 1983, she became interested in watercolor and has since devoted most of her work to that medium. Recently, she has added some oils, collage, ceramic tiles and polymer clay.

Valerie has received numerous awards in juried shows and has been honored with several one-woman shows. She is a signature member of the Society of Western Artists and her work is among private collections throughout the United States, Canada, Japan and Taiwan.

Asian culture has always been of great interest to Valerie and trips to China, Japan, Thailand and other Asian countries have only served to heighten that interest. Recent trips to Europe have added new dimensions to her subject matter. "A whole world of paintings are in my head—it is so interesting to me!"..

Setsugekka
23 x 31

Arbor Bounty
20 x 23