Art is the language of the soul, and for as long as I can remember, it has been the way I connect with the world. My name is Natalie Valencia, and I’m an artist based in Los Angeles, originally from Miami, Florida, with roots in Brazil and my native culture. Through this blog, ‘Art Insider,’ I’m excited to take you on a journey into my creative world, where oil painting, sculpture, and experimentation with diverse materials come together to form unique expressions. Here, I’ll also be highlighting inspiring artists, sharing my experiences with exhibitions, and offering insights into the process of creating art.
My artistic journey began in Miami, influenced by the vibrant colors and cultural richness of both the city and my Brazilian heritage. I moved to California to pursue my studies in art, where I deepened my skills and passion for creating. My work is grounded in oil painting, a medium I find both challenging and rewarding, but I’ve also expanded into sculpture, working with ceramics, steel, wood, and various sourced materials. For me, each material offers a new way to tell a story and connect with those who view my work.
Each piece begins with a moment of inspiration—whether it’s drawn from the natural world, personal experiences, or the intricate textures of the materials I work with. My travels, emotional connections, and interactions with people also play a huge role in shaping my work. My paintings, which are figurative and expressive, often reflect the emotions I feel during these moments—whether it’s joy, introspection, or tension. I aim to capture the energy and emotion of each experience, translating them into vibrant, dynamic works.
I love the fluidity of oil painting, but I also enjoy the tactile nature of sculpting. In my studio, I’m constantly exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of my practice. On ‘Art Insider,’ I’ll be sharing behind-the-scenes looks at my process, as well as insights into the work of other artists who inspire me.
In this blog, I’ll be offering insights into my work, sharing updates on my current projects, and reflecting on the art world as I navigate my career as an artist. You’ll see glimpses of my studio, learn about the materials I work with, and join me as I explore new creative avenues. I’m also excited to highlight other talented artists, showcase exhibitions I’m part of, and share the lessons I learn through the process of creating and exhibiting art. Whether you’re an art lover, a fellow artist, or simply curious about the artistic process, I hope ‘Art Insider’ becomes a place where you can find inspiration and connection.
I look forward to sharing what’s to come with you! Feel free to leave a comment with your thoughts, questions, or topics you’d like me to discuss. Stay tuned for updates on my latest works, insights into exhibitions, and spotlights on artists making an impact in the art world.
With love,
Nat
A glimpse of my latest work, stay tuned for final results.