My work is on permanent show at Bromham Mill Gallery (Bedford), Hitchin Information Office (near St Mary’s Church) and in the Business Technology Centre, Stevenage. My painting ‘Blue Nude’ will be included in the Letchworth Open Exhibition at the Broadway Gallery (start date to be confirmed when restrictions ease).
To my delight, my oil painting ‘Reflections 4’ won a Highly Commended award in the SAA Artist of the Year competition 2020, reaching the final 54 out of almost 5000 entries. My new collection ‘Reflections in Water’ will be released in November 2020 and will include paintings in a range of different sizes, formats and media.
Visitors to my studio in Fairfield (near Letchworth) are welcome by appointment - val@vallawsonart.com.
In 2019, I took part in two exhibitions run by Artists Network Bedfordshire, had a one-day pop-up show at The White Hart, Maulden and then a very successful solo exhibition at the Cultural Centre in Denia, Spain which generated sales and a large commissioned oil painting
In 2020, studio and exhibition time has been limited by the combination of moving house, various health issues and the limitations of COVID-19 lockdowns. Over the summer I completed a commissioned seascape of Chia Laguna, Sardinia and helped to set up and run an online show with Artists Network Beds. I joined HVA taking part in their Virtual Open Studios in September and Christmas Showcase in November/December.
I make paintings in a style I call expressive abstraction: colourful reflections of light and emotions with lively brushstrokes and texture. The effect of light on colour, line and shape reflects the personality of a person, the atmosphere of a scene or the inspiration of beautiful words.
I love to experiment. By trying new techniques, materials and tools, I often find enjoyable and effective new ways to do things. Usually I work in oils, acrylics or mixed media, but I’m always open to change. In 2020, I switched to working mostly with a palette knife rather than a brush. My motto is ‘Feel the fear and do it anyway’ especially related to my artwork, so this year I also took my portrait work to a new level and completed a commission – the buyer loves it!
I moved recently to Fairfield on the Herts/Beds border where I have set up my studio - still sorting through materials, planning storage and working space, but getting there - my latest installation is a canvas storage rack!
I love talking with people about painting, materials and techniques, so over time, I hope people will come to see me there - to browse, chat, paint and explore ideas together. Next year, I plan to launch a new community art group in Fairfield. Meanwhile, I can schedule socially distanced studio visits (depending on restrictions) where I have paintings, prints and cards on sale and I have a gallery and shop on my website www.vallawsonart.com
07434 351027