Artist Valerie Wiebe crafts beautifully patterned frames to surround her impressionistic landscapes, adding to the story behind her paintings. Visit her website to enjoy more of her work.
“Look at the Birds!” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
I have always been a creative soul. As a young girl I was constantly crafting, making and imagining new things, completely and totally infatuated with color, pattern and beauty.
“Hydrangea Sky” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 41” x 41”
I grew up in an area of Saskatchewan that is primarily flat and treeless, surrounded by open sky and vast horizons. However, it wasn’t until recently, perhaps the last five years or so, that I have begun to realize the impact that has had on my life and how I express myself creatively.
“The Sky Wore a Pink Dress” Acrylic on Birch Panel, 31.5” x 31.5”
I love watching the way the light is continually changing the landscape across the seasons.
“Flourishing!” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
I adore all the shifting colors and moods of the sky and the prairie terrain.
“Sacred Land” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
My paintings explore those changes, but perhaps even more, they are a reflection of the inner landscape of my thoughts and emotions.
“I Will Remember You!” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
I use two stances of perspective in my work—looking up and looking down. Both of these postures inspire a paradox—of awe that I get to experience such beauty; and a profound realization of my own insignificance. Both attitudes help me to remain humble and to value my life and the opportunities I have been given. In my painting I discover a spirit of gratitude.
“A Coat of Many Colors” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
People often comment on the unique borders I create around my painted landscapes. Many love or are intrigued by them, but I have also been told I don’t need those borders, that my landscapes can stand on their own.
“As Above, So Below” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
They may all be right, and yet I feel a compulsion to keep doing these borders. I think about them as subtext or a footnote to the central image, more information.
“The Road That Leads You Home” Acrylic on Baltic Birch Panel, 17.5” x 17.5”
They feed my “from childhood” obsession with color, pattern and beauty. They give me a place to play, to try new techniques, and blur the lines between art and craft.
Artist Valerie Wiebe at work in her studio
The tagline for my art business is “Where the creative journey is always surprising!” That idea truly describes my process. This art making continues to be a wonderful life journey, with new opportunities at every turn, and joy afresh each morning.
Artist Valerie Wiebe invites you to follow her on Facebook and Instagram.
These are so lovely. My favorite is Sacred Land.
Thanks so much!
Thanks so much! This was a very special piece to draw attention to the 94 calls to action from the Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Indigenous rights here in Canada. I firmly believe that it is only when we all work together, Indigenous and Settler peoples, will true and lasting social change happen. Thanks for your interest.