We are so thrilled to have Valerie Bjork Schnaufer in the gallery Saturday, July 15, for our next artist spotlight event! Drop in anytime between 2-4 p.m. to meet Valerie and find out more about her inspiration and the techniques she employs in her studio. Valerie's work radiates the serene balance found in nature as well as a kind of wordless joy... She is an active artist in her community of Spruce Pine, North Carolina, acting as a champion for artists in that area. When she's not doing her own work, you can often find Valerie on the campus of the Penland School of Craft helping out.
"My ceramic work begins with forms found in nature," she says. "During days spent hiking the mountains of Western North Carolina and combing the beaches of Green Turtle Cay, Abaco Bahamas, I collect from nature, treasures that continue to fascinate me for their form, beauty or unusual characteristics. These forms often cause me to take a second look, wanting to further explore their qualities and uniqueness. I treasure these gifts and begin to construct a 'home' of sorts from slab so that the observer may enjoy the form as well as the dwelling in which they reside. Just as in nature, no two are alike. I am continually drawn to the elements of nature, the surprises and the ever-changing qualities that exist. Time spent exploring the outside world transcends into my life, my studio and my work. It is responsible for my creative process in clay."
A few years ago, when Valerie was at her winter residence in the Bahamas, she learned that her home and studio in Spruce Pine had burned down. Getting that news was devastating for her, but she learned quickly how her friends were willing to step up to help her. Cynthia Bringle, her dear friend and a fellow potter, opened her studio space to share, which allowed Valerie to continue working. We believe Valerie's personal resilience shows in her work. She continues to be creative and push the envelope, even through adversity. We are so pleased to get this time with her on Saturday. We look forward to seeing you there!
We are so proud to have Valerie here! We hope you'll join us in welcoming her this Saturday, June 24 in a meet-and-greet event from 2-4 p.m. here at the gallery.
