VALERIE A. GORDON
Encino
Summary
Versatile artist and educator with a focus on experiential learning in the arts. Expertise in guiding students through creative processes, directing exhibitions, and implementing eco-literacy programs, all aimed at enhancing observation, craftsmanship, and community engagement.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Artist in Residence
Los Encinos School
Encino
01.2024 - Current
- Facilitate ceramics and sculpture projects inspired by biodiversity, folk traditions, and environmental themes.
- Guide students through studio processes emphasizing observation, experimentation, craftsmanship, and sustainable approaches to making.
Arts Educator / Humanities & Arts Coordinator
Los Encinos School
Encino
01.2000 - 01.2025
- Developed interdisciplinary arts and humanities curriculum connecting visual culture, literature, history, and environmental studies.
- Directed exhibitions, performances, artist residencies, and collaborative cultural programming.
- Created thematic learning frameworks exploring identity, community, stewardship, and social responsibility.
- Established eco-literacy initiatives including a California native habitat garden and outdoor learning environments.
- Initiated and coordinated an international arts collaboration with the Pou Timoun Foundation, Haiti.
Art Specialist / Summer Faculty
Idyllwild Arts
Idyllwild
01.2010 - 01.2020
- Taught interdisciplinary visual arts, sculpture, mixed media, and site-responsive projects for young artists.
- Curated student exhibitions and collaborative installations.
Arts Educator, Museum Outreach
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
Los Angeles
01.1998 - 01.2001
- Developed and facilitated K–12 and adult learning experiences connected to contemporary art exhibitions.
- Led gallery discussions, workshops, and public engagement programs.
Arts Educator, Outreach
Barnsdall Municipal Art Gallery
Los Angeles
01.1996 - 01.1998
- Developed curriculum and public programs that fostered community engagement and participation in socially engaged exhibitions.
Education
M.A. - Arts Education & Visual Literacy
California State University
NorthridgeB.F.A. - Arts Education & Art History
University of California
Los AngelesSkills
- Curriculum Design
- Workshop Facilitation
- Arts Integration
- Exhibition Development
- Artistic Collaboration
- Community Engagement
- Collaborative Facilitation
- Public Speaking
- Google Classroom
- Google Sites
- Microsoft Office
Websites
Certifications And Professional Training
- Eco-Literacy Certification — Occidental Arts & Ecology Center
- Montessori Certification
- DEIJ Standards Training — Elizabeth Denevi
- Tewa Pottery Certificate — Idyllwild Native American Arts Program
- CPR & First Aid Certified
Studio Practice
- Ceramics
- Sculpture
- Printmaking
- Textiles
- Watercolor
- Collage
- Mixed Media
Artist Statement
My practice investigates relationships between people, place, and the natural world through material exploration, storytelling, and collaborative art-making. Drawing from ecology, folk traditions, and community-based learning, I create opportunities for observation, connection, and shared inquiry. Whether in the studio, classroom, or community setting, I view art as a catalyst for curiosity, stewardship, and meaningful engagement with the world around us.
Current Projects And Community Engagement
Teaching Artist, Workshop Facilitator & Presenter, 01/01/25 - Present, Design and facilitate youth, teen, and intergenerational workshops integrating visual art, literature, ecology, and creative inquiry., Studio Art Instructor, Los Angeles Pierce College Extension (Spring 2026), teaching process-based art practices emphasizing experimentation, material investigation, and visual literacy., Art Presenter, Holy Spirit Retreat Center Wellness Retreat (2026), leading contemplative art experiences centered on creativity, reflection, and well-being., Lead workshops in printmaking, ecology-driven art studies, environmental storytelling, and place-based creative practice., Develop community arts programming for libraries, schools, retreats, and cultural organizations.
Artistic Focus
- Ecology
- Place-Based Practice
- Environmental Storytelling
- Community Arts
- Material Exploration
- Printmaking
- Ceramics
- Folk Traditions
- Visual Literacy
Timeline
Artist in Residence
Los Encinos School
01.2024 - Current
Art Specialist / Summer Faculty
Idyllwild Arts
01.2010 - 01.2020
Arts Educator / Humanities & Arts Coordinator
Los Encinos School
01.2000 - 01.2025
Arts Educator, Museum Outreach
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA)
01.1998 - 01.2001
Arts Educator, Outreach
Barnsdall Municipal Art Gallery
01.1996 - 01.1998
M.A. - Arts Education & Visual Literacy
California State University
B.F.A. - Arts Education & Art History
University of California