Photo Karen Graham.
Valerie Kent with one of the easels she designed and sells. Built in Bethany, they feature adjustable heights for sitting or standing, openings for water container and brushes, and suitable for a variety of canvas board sizes.
Like the little engine that could, Valerie Kent just keeps on chugging. Recent knee surgery slowed her down a bit, but she’s back at it, hosting painting workshops, private painting parties, writing for art journals, and organizing two more painting trips to France this summer, all while running her Art Gallery in Cavan.
A crusader for “accessible art”, Valerie seeks to share her love and understanding of art through a wide range of activities. She teaches classes and workshops in her studio and in workshops for school boards, art societies, art schools, and colleges. There is no snobbishness here; the uninitiated are invited to explore their inner artist in relaxed environments such as parties and paint nights.
The Cavan Art Gallery is open from noon to 4pm on Wednesday through Sundays, where you can find affordable art produced by local artists including Lucy Manley, Esperanca Melo and Paul Teleki.
For the younger crowd, the upper level of the gallery provides an ideal location for art camps and art-themed birthday parties, including a week-long program planned for March Break.
Her most ambitious project takes her students to France for an outdoor painting program. Last years’ experience indicated that a week in France was not long enough, so this year’s trips stretch to 10 days. Up to eight participants from beginners to experienced artists travel to the village of Terrasson, in the Dordogne area, painting under Valerie’s expert guidance.
In her spare time she continues to paint, expanding her popular Market series of works which have received international attention in Korea, the Netherlands and Japan and offering her skills to good causes, delivering art therapy sessions in local seniors’ homes and leading a painting party for the Toy Drive for the Salvation Army.
Drop into the gallery or visit her website at www.cavan-arts.com and see how you can add a little art to your life. KG
