California painter Mary Valente showcases her distinctive collection, featuring works that blend unique stylistic elements with a signature color palette. See more by visiting her website.
“Body Language 17″ acrylic, 24″ x 20”
I grew up with a creative and gifted dad. While it was inspiring, it was even more intimidating. He’d never had a lesson, nor could he read music, yet he could hear a melody once and then sit at the piano and play it.
“Body Language 25″ acrylic, 36″ x 48”
One day, when I was about eight, he got the idea that it would be cool to have a mural of his hometown on our den wall. Over a couple of months he completed a large replica of his Italian cliffside village, beautifully rendered in oil. It was the first time he had ever painted.
“Body Language 23″ acrylic, 48″ x 36”
Like most kids, I loved making art—but early on, decided I wouldn’t measure up. Rather than risk failing, I chose a safer route. I studied business and entered the corporate world. And I was happy… for a time.
“Body Language 28″ acrylic, 48″ x 36”
Fast forward a couple of decades and the yearning to create art resurfaced. I saved my money and took the plunge, leaving the corporate world to attend the Academy of Art University in San Francisco. I knew if I didn’t give art a chance I would regret it forever. And I haven’t looked back.
“Body Language 24″ acrylic, 48″ x 36”
With paint I express ideas and emotions in a non-verbal, more universal way. I toggle between oil or acrylic media; in addition I often incorporate pigment sticks, hard pastels, and cold wax. I try to keep my work fresh by experimenting with new subjects and materials. My two most recent series are entitled Body Language and Mendocino Mood.
“Mendocino Fog 18″ acrylic, 8″ x 10”
Body Language is composed of contemporary figure paintings. When I observe someone from a distance I draw conclusions about their mood and feelings at that moment, i.e., I interpret them. I began to wonder if others would have similar or different conclusions. When visitors come to my studio or art openings I often ask them what their interpretation of a piece is. The result? It’s rarely the same as mine!
“Mendocino Fog 17″ acrylic, 8″ x 10”
Mendocino Mood is a series I began following time spent in this Northern California coastal town. For a week, we were nestled under a blanket of fog. It was beautiful and mysterious. The fog cast an eerie color over the bluffs.
“Mendocino Fog 21″ acrylic, 8″ x 10”
When I arrived back in my studio I began interpreting this experience based on the mood I felt during that time.
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