Valerie Land 1956 - 2026

Valerie studied art and design at Norwich and Farnham and took a postgraduate course at the University of Reading. For some years she was head of art in a private school. Since 1999 she had been a professional artist living in Wales, exhibiting in many of the galleries in North Wales.

Residing in the small village of Friog, a short, brisk walk from the sea, hills and woodland, these familiar places became the focus of Valerie’s work, although she preferred capturing a particular mood rather than a specific location. Her work was always about light, tending to be peaceful, solitary and sometimes a little surreal.

Valerie was a steadfast and greatly valued member of the ArtWorks Family, having supported and exhibited with us since our formation in July 2012. She was a regular member of our stewarding team – always ready for a cheery conversation with our visitors. She was also a huge asset to the wider art community, being a founder member of CRYD, a group of professional artists who exhibited locally, and the chair of the Meirionydd Artist’s Society for many years.

We will all greatly miss her cheery smile, quick wit, loyalty, incredible talent and sound advice.

In her own words “A once upon a time teacher, and expert day dreamer”, Valerie was inspired by her local environment and her imagination, but more importantly, she inspired all those she met.