About Valerie

Born in Malaysia, Valerie Choo is a Canadian Chinese painter who primarily works in acrylic and oil.

Although having grown up in a Christian family, Choo’s religious upbringing only started to influence her work after a monumental experience of living in Singapore. Having started painting as a teenager, she transitioned from exploring the interplay of her two cultures to presently, delving into reflecting the mastery of God’s craftsmanship through landscape.

Choo currently lives and works in the Greater Toronto Area, Canada. Upon completing her final year as a Visual Arts undergraduate student at York University, she hopes to continue her practice in the years to come with a continued focus on the natural world inspired by her awe of God who is the Creator of all things.

When not painting, Valerie likes to watch Chinese dramas and food videos.

 

Inspired by:

 

“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.” 

– 1 Corinthians 10:31 ESV

 

“The true work of art is but a shadow of divine perfection.” 

– Michelangelo

Artist Statement

Why do I make art?

I make art because it’s an expression of my soul. 

A form of worship to my Heavenly Father.

Like David and his Psalms, to rejoice in the work of His hands and express the joys and sorrows of life.

A way to preserve and remind others of the beauty of nature.

In this modern world of fast and busy, have you thought to slow down and rest? To find respite in the midst of this busy life? 

Have you found time to breathe? To really look?

All that my Lord has created is a thing of beauty.

What I paint, it’s a reflection of that, a reflection of that hope and peace He brings.

In the midst of a storm or on a cloudy day, it’s the soft light that penetrates through the clouds.

In the vastness of the oceans, it’s the rocky outcrops that ground us.

In the valley surrounded by giants, it’s the soft breeze that refreshes us..

Though small and insignificant, we as humans have the privilege of resting and exploring in this place God created.

To share the beauty and be inspired by His creation… that’s why I make art.