Valerie Boet

The process of making art is an enjoyable fulfilling journey for me. It begins with an

inspiration. I plan and prep for the art, next comes the meditative and quiet of focusing until

completion of the piece. Somewhere in my process I often experiment for fun, not being

particularly interested in having a “style”, but trying always to maintain quality work.

My painting media are oil, acrylic and watercolor. Nature or landscape paintings are often

subjects for me. Lake Michigan with its many moods offers a different landscape from the

rolling hills of Iowa where I grew up; I have found the big lake fascinating. I often work

realistically in oils, acrylics and watercolors using my own photographs for references, but I

have also paint abstractly.

I work with fibers, like yarn, beads, driftwood and other found objects. I weave using the

coiling core method and often incorporate driftwood, feathers and beads into my baskets

and wall pieces.

In 1986, I was hired by Grand Haven Schools to teach elementary art. I had a wonderful

career as an art teacher for 27 years and I retired from teaching in 2012.

Education and Career:

2014 Rejoined the Gallery Uptown

2012 Retired from teaching

1986 Began teaching art at Grand Haven Public Schools

1983 Master of Arts Degree, Drake University

1971 University of Iowa B.A., art major with a focus in painting