artist portfolio
Val Western
Painter and Ceramic Artist
Artist Statement
Based in the South West of Western Australia, my art is often inspired by local landscapes including ocean elements. Through painting and ceramics, I create dynamic and varied works that reflect the beauty and ever-changing essence of my surroundings. My work often features sunflowers and my pottery pieces are often organic, flowing structures, symbolizing growth, resilience, and the harmony of natural forms. By continuously experimenting and evolving as an artist, I aim to evoke emotions and inspire viewers to see the world through an imaginative lens.
Exhibition History
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Bunbury Studio Potters | 2023, 2024
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Dardanup Art Spectacular | 2025
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City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder Art Prize | 2017, 2018, 2019
Professional Experience
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Art Teacher | Goldfields, WA (3 Years)
During my time in the Goldfields, I taught art to students from pre-primary to Year 6, designing engaging programs that nurtured creativity and introduced foundational techniques in visual arts. This experience deepened my understanding of the artistic process and inspired my own practice.
Artistic Practice
My current work explores varied media and techniques in both painting and ceramics. Recurring themes include sunflowers, representing vitality and joy, and pottery with organic forms, emphasizing the beauty of imperfection and nature.
Education and Training
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2016: Bachelor of Education (Primary)
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April 2018: Intuitive Painting Workshop with Rachel Doring, hosted by Hippocrocaduck, Kalgoorlie
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August 2024: Handbuilding Workshop with Madoda Fani (international ceramicist), hosted by BRAG, Bunbury
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January 2025: Paper Clay Workshop with Graham Hay, hosted by Stirling Street Arts Centre, Bunbury
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May 2025: Coloured Slip Stencils and Sgraffitto with Bernard Kerr, hosted by Stirling Street Arts Centre, Bunbury
Artistic Development
While pursuing a teaching degree, I completed fine arts electives that provided foundational skills and fueled my passion for creative expression:
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2014 | VSW100 Arts and Creativity – Curtin University
Explore creative problem-solving, ideas development, and the interplay of imagination, material exploration, and art production.
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2015 | VAR11 Visual Arts Research – Curtin University
Focus on drawing principles, combining formal, conceptual, and experimental approaches to develop expressive visual language using diverse media.
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Contact
Email: val.western@gmail.com
Portfolio Website