255Canal is pleased to present Figuring it Out, drawings by Valentina Celada.

“Figuring It Out is the result of two years of intense drawing sessions from the live model exploring different ways of seeing and rendering the figure. Focusing primarily on the relationship between emotions and creative expression, I chose to “feel” the form rather than consciously controlling its representation. To bypass the rational brain and enhance spontaneity, I started drawing with long sticks at the end of which I secured a pencil, a brush or charcoal using color and ink wash. In my approach to the form, the figure also represents a platform for the creation of abstract compositions.”

Born in Stockholm, Sweden, Valentina grew up between Italy and the United States and has been living and working in New York since 1997. With a degree in Literature from Rome’s University “La Sapienza”, she went on to study figure drawing at the Accademia delle Belle Arti di Roma and sculpture at the Scuola “S. Giacomo di Roma.” In New York she studied at the Arts Students League and at The Drawing Center, The Cooper Union, the Parsons/New School, The New York Studio School and The Museum of Modern Art.