Most people cannot see the energy emanating from our natural world, although we often feel it. I translate the energy of nature and place into a visual language for all to access. My work is intended to draw attention to the effects of global warming and the rise of sea levels on island communities. When I speak of nature I am referring to the elements, sky, land, flora, fauna, and the universe of course. My landscapes are grounded in a contemporary surrealistic aesthetic that invites the imagination to flourish and to seek wisdom within. I use the term “imagined landscapes” as they are imaginative interpretations of the energy of place and insight I take from observing the natural world. I am interested in engaging the viewer to think critically about sustainability practices in order to preserve the magic and beauty of these places as well as bring attention to climate change and our impact on the natural environment.
Jennifer Valenzuela is a visual artist and educator who engages in oil painting, resin, and installation. She holds a BFA in studio painting, a BA in Liberal Studies, achieved the National Boards for Teachers, a k-8 multi subjects credential as well as an Art Education credential from San Francisco State University in California. Originally from OR she has had the opportunity to live in San Francisco for many years as well as launch her art career there. Jennifer has traveled throughout the world where continues to find inspiration in experiencing new cultures and diverse lands. She has resided on Maui, HI since 2008 where she creates in her upcountry studio and raises her two sons. Her works have been acquired by collectors worldwide, including the Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts and has exhibited in venues such as The MOAH Lancaster Museum, sponsored The Getty, Schaefer International Gallery (Kahului, HI), The Hui No’eau (Makawao, HI), The Wailoa Art Center (Hilo, HI), as well as a variety of galleries throughout the Hawaiian Islands and Mainland, USA.
The Artistic Teaching Partners (ATP) Roster is an adjudicated directory of Hawai‘i professional teaching artists qualified to conduct in-depth residencies in educational settings. Each artist or arts organization has a page in the directory with contact information, a short bio, and an artist statement. The State Foundation on Culture and the Arts draws from this roster for arts education programs including Art Bento at the Hawaiʻi State Art Museum and Artists in the Schools.
