Coventry, Valarie

As a self-taught artist, I have worked across various mediums over the years, however, my special interest is in painting on silk with inks and gutta. I find the combination of strength and fragility that silk embodies makes it a perfect choice for environmental subjects. I was fortunate to acquire a piece of parachute silk for this piece, which is a unique representation of the seven sisters story from the Pleiades star constellation; a legendary story which is universally recognised across cultures. The silver cord which connects the sisters, also represents the silver cord which connects us to our bodies during astral travels in the dreamtime. The inspiration came from Lucinda Riley's book series 'The story of the seven sisters.'

I also enjoy working with watercolour and acrylic. The second painting entered this year is a mixed media piece featuring different glazes, textures and colours. It represents a happy place shared by many others when sitting by the water on a sunny day. Previous commissions and sold pieces can be viewed on my Facebook page.