<p>A representational painter, Valerie believes painting is a witness of intimate moments, an opportunity to discern the beautiful in the ordinary or every day. Known for her expressive brushwork, she looks to both the figure and nature for inspiration regarding light, color and design. Selected honors include Silver Award, 2022 Ireland's Art in the Open, Best Maritime 2022, Cape Ann Plein Air, &nbsp;Best of Show, 2021 American Impressionist Society's Small Works; Judge's Award, 2020 Olmsted Plein Air; Best in Show, 2021 LandArtEvents; Best of Show 2019 Olmsted Plein Air Invitational's Petit Painting; Artists' Choice Award, 2019 Gloucester Plein Air Invitational; Marjorie Bradley Memorial Award, 2018 American Impressionist Society 2018 National Exhibition; Artists' Choice Award, 2017 Ireland's Art in the Open; Juror's Award, 2019 Wayne Plein Air Festival; Second Place, 2016 Plein Air Magazine National Annual Salon; Award of Distinction, American Impressionist's 2014 National Exhibition; Grand Prize, 2013 American Women Artists OnLine Juried Competition; Gold Award, Ireland’s 2013 International Art in the Open Festival.</p>