Valya Hristova

VALYA HRISTOVA
Artist Statement The inspiration for my work as an artist comes from all areas of my life.  I try to capture and transform any subject into expressive visual language. I have been fascinated by the human figure – especially unique gestures, moods, facial expressions, light and relationship with the surrounding color. All of these evoke an impulse to make a painting. However, to create is not just to copy surroundings. I strive to lay down my emotion and passion through composition and harmonious color. I have tried to capture people revealing their hidden beauty. When I paint I like to be spontaneous…to stop thinking, just trust my intuition. Sometimes I just leave something out or give little hints, this way I awaken my viewer to use their imagination to (mentally) complete my piece in a personal way and engage them deeper into my work.



​Bio Valya Hristova, was born and raised in Sofia, Bulgaria She has a Masters degree in  Conservation and restoration at N. Pavlovich University, following a Bachelors of Art, in addition to intensive 4yr Art High School. She received a “Best of show“ award 1978 at Contemporary National Gallery at Sofia while still a student. She worked at Archeological museum for 12 years, giving her the opportunity to work on pieces from great masters of the past from prehistoric age to 20th century. These  allowed her to learn about different art techniques and their evolution. She came to USA 1991. She worked as a restorer, professional artist and art  instructor.
 
She taught oil and pastel painting at Monrovia College, watercolor at Brand Art studio at Brand library in Glendale, Burbank Creative Art Center and Arcadia.
 
Her work has been juried in many national and international exhibitions: Brand National, WW, Annual Signature  American Watermedia International Exhibition, CWA. PSME(pastel) International, PSSC international online

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