Valerie was born into a family of artists. Her mother and grandmother both went to art school, were accomplished painters, and owned a gallery. Valerie studied art at Cranbrook Academy of Arts and the University of Michigan School of Art. She taught textiles at the college level as well as elementary/middle school art in Michigan and Maryland. Currently Valerie is creating sculptural ceramic vessels and wearable shibori which are for sale at the Blockhouse Shop in Waitsfield VT and AVA Members Gallery in Lebanon, NH.