Val is a Scottish artist, currently based in Edinburgh. She dares to paint emotions relating to love, courage and healing. Val has recently been working on a series of artworks that signify feeling free. Val is also a mental health practitioner and has worked within health and social care, employability, education and community arts. She has shared her knowledge and skills with many people of all ages to promote their mental health and wellbeing.

See Val’s work as part of our annual autumn open call exhibition, Future/Past, featuring a sublime collection of works by twenty six artists inspired by ancestral echoes and future visions; pieces that dismantle tradition, reimagine narratives, and linger in the margins of the radical, the oneiric, and the everyday.

Hi Val! Tell us how your artistic journey started.
I didn’t do well at school, so when my own children went to school, I went to college for art and was even offered a place at Edinburgh College of Art.  I chose to prioritise my children and I don’t regret my path.  I volunteered with Artlink at a psychiatric hospital and then suddenly I was at university studying Mental Health Nursing.  What an incredible journey that has been.  I love to share my art during workshops wherever I work and I love my new studio 403 with Wasps.

How do you overcome creative blocks? 
I walk and walk and walk.  I go to see exhibitions.  I notice the world around me.  Then I usually start doodling to warm up and I’m back 🙂

What advice would you give to artists who are just starting out?
Ask yourself why you are doing this. Is it for you? Is it for the world or is it for money? Money comes sometimes and it’s a great feeling that some else loves your work.  I do it for me.

Can you elaborate on the significance or symbolism of the chosen title of your work?
Freedom to Flow symbolises a difficult journey that we all experienced with Covid, but I was already feeling trapped in my little world.  I found freedom by pushing through very sad times. 

How do you know when a piece is complete?
I often leave paintings for months and then add a little something else. I come back with fresh perspectives.

Are there any upcoming events or additional information you would like the audience to know?
We are having our very first Open Studios at Wasps Riverside House, Edinburgh, on Saturday 15 November 2025, 11:00-18:00. All welcome!

Find out more about Val’s work on Instagram. Future/Past runs at Six Foot Gallery until Tuesday 14th October.