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Painting Hamilton

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Posted on May 19 2009 under Arts & Entertainment

By Valerie Cousens

My art continues to unfold as I grow. I am completely self-taught and didn’t like art growing up even though Robert Bateman and his wife were both art teachers at my high school.

I didn't think I was creative.

Over the years, I began to develop a taste for art. I started volunteering at the Art Gallery of Hamilton and my love grew into a passion. I longed to attend art classes or workshops, but I could never find the extra money for training.

One day I decided that I couldn’t wait any longer, so I went to a local art supplies store and bought cheap acrylic paints and canvases. I wanted to throw the paint on it and see what would happen. I painted with putty and plastering knives that I had in the house. I painted one canvas after another.  

I love abstract painting because it is always open to interpretation by the viewer. Exploring my options as my creative brain explodes gets more and more exciting. I have progressed to painting much larger pieces and I now paint on board and build up the textures first using mixed media. I have started bringing a journal to all of my shows so that people can share their thoughts about my art. I believe that everyone should be encouraged to follow their creativity, no matter what barriers they face.


"Bloom", 8x10, acrylic on canvas

 "Cezanne at Aix", 10x10, acrylic on canvas

"Choices", 24x36, acrylic on board

"NYC" 8x10, acrylic on canvas

"There", 9x12, acrylic on canvas panel

"Tulips", 12x16, acrylic on canvas

"Turmoil", 24x36, mixed media on board

"Venice", 16x20, acrylic on canvas panel

Comments
On May 19 2009, Tracey said,
Val I am totally intrigued by your creativity,yet not surprised..Knowing you from days of yore I knew you had an artist in you somewhere. Love the paintings Val! Bravo!
On May 25 2009, Glen Doe said,
Hi Val, you are a quite amazing gal! I'm impressed by your art as well as the letter you wrote above. Glen
On June 04 2009, Lindsay S said,
Love the boldness of your art Val!
On July 24 2009, Sapphire said,
I am so glad you shared your story. It is an inspiration. Art is not something reserved for the classically trained. It is a mode expression that comes from the heart. Congrats!
On August 13 2009, James Unsworth said,
Materpieces Val. When are you having your debut showing of your art?
On August 27 2009, Jamie said,
Hi Valerie...It was nice talking to you outside my shop yesterday, thanks for passing on this site, I just love abstractional art...great work!
jamie
On October 17 2009, Valerie said,
i have an ART Exhibition at Gallery on 4, February 2010, please come by
On October 18 2009, michael hampson said,
I see nature in all your peices, i too came to art late-but like you found him to be quite interesting and empowering...all good things in all good time. A lovely insight to your inner world Val. create and be well.
On October 22 2009, Valerie said,
I have one piece in the members show at Hamilton Artists Inc. Nov 13 to Dec. 19
On December 28 2009, Valerie said,
reception at the Gallery on 4 (located in the Central Library downtown Hamilton) is friday february 12, from 7 to 9pm
On February 10 2010, Carolyna Loveless said,
Fabulous! Beautiful! You are an inspiration, Valerie.
Carolyna Loveless
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