A show of Art celebrating Black History
2016
WBGO Reception night March 2017
Valerie Williams
I am a long time resident of Fort Greene. Although I’m a Brooklyn transplant, I ‘m a native New Yorker, known for my vibrant color 35mm macro floral and bio themed photography, fabric painting and for my more recent scanning electron microscope (SEM) photographs of flowers, seeds, Bermuda beach sand and other tiny objects.
Since the early 1990’s, as a research biologist, I have worked on various biomedical research projects, where I had access to the high tech microscopes, like the scanning electron microscope. In this environment, I perfected my micro photographic techniques. In my artwork, I seek to reveal the hidden mysteries of an, until now, unknown world not visible to the common eye. I achieve a sensual glow in my black & white photographs with the interaction between light, shade and especially texture. I do this by photographing the specimens under ideal conditions and at high magnifications of 200 xs or more.
Early in my career, I became fascinated with the art of science. Experimenting with different photography styles, printing and fabric techniques, dye combinations and formulations has led to my unique views and artistic expression. I have exhibited my painted, printed, and batik textile art, mixed media, and linoleum block prints at the Wearable Arts Show and the Basquiat Manifest: An Art Exhibition Tribute at the NY Harlem State Office Bldg. I currently have 3 pieces in a permanent installation with Dunn Development Corp.
While volunteering at SONYA’s 1110 Gallery, in Bedford Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, NY, I had a chance to see the impact of art on the children in the neighborhood. The opportunity to have a positive influence on the lives of Brooklyn residents, especially the children, keeps me striving to create interesting, thought provoking art, often with a story. With my background in science and technology, I can appreciate the role & influence of art in science, math and success in education. I believe that as an artist, it is my responsibility is to create opportunities for people to see and think differently.
