"My work builds on the legacy of abstract expressionism, particularly the gestural approach of American action painters, while integrating influences from 19th century American landscape and Chinese painting."

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Valerie has been exhibiting her work locally, nationally, and internationally for three decades.   She was one of six Ohio artists selected to show with Israeli artists in Common Ground; Contemporary Landscapes from Israel and Ohio that traveled within Ohio and to Jerusalem.  She received a B.A. from SUNY Binghamton and advanced degrees from Southern Connecticut State University and the University of Cincinnati.
 
Cincinnati Enquirer‘s Marilyn Bauer described Shesko’s work as “evocative, yet serene, beautiful with a Capital B.”

“Shesko specializes in transcendental landscapes that are inspired by the Hudson River School and Turner, she builds up strata of glazes to represent transitions of light.  Subtle textures infuse these paintings with vigor and a contemporary look that one might not expect from such a traditional subject matter. The best of these paintings glow from within.  These are paintings to live with - peaceful, contemplative, luminous.    -Michele Natale, Art critic

Awards
Ohio Arts Council Professional Development
Assistance Award, 1990