Welcome! I’m Valerie Crowder Irvin, a Canadian artist who finds endless inspiration in the beauty of the natural world. Whether it’s the rugged wilderness of Canada or the vibrant Sonoran Desert, my work reflects the colours, forms, and energy I experience in nature. Through my paintings, I create art that stirs emotion and invites you to see familiar landscapes in bold, new ways.
My work ranges from representational to abstract, blending vibrant colour and bold shapes to capture the energy and spirit of the landscapes I love. I’m influenced by legendary artists like the Group of Seven, Wassily Kandinsky, Vincent van Gogh, and Andy Warhol, whose styles I combine with my personal vision. Whether it’s the geometric precision of my abstract pieces or the structured beauty of my landscapes, my art reflects both the real and the imagined aspects of nature.
Painting has been my passion since childhood, and over the years, I’ve explored my creative instincts through fashion and interior design. It wasn’t until after retirement, though, that I fully embraced my calling as a professional artist. I’ve had the privilege of studying with prestigious institutions like the Avenue Road Arts School in Toronto, the Toronto School of Art, and the Scottsdale Artists' School in Arizona, all of which helped me refine my skills and grow as an artist.
Today, I’m a proud member of several art collectives, including the North Toronto Group of Artists, A Place for the Arts (APFTA) in Bancroft, and the Working Artists Studio in Scottsdale, Arizona.
These communities have provided me with invaluable opportunities to share my work and connect with fellow art lovers across North America.