Monica Valentine’s primary practice takes the form of optically charged sculptures composed of foam shapes that are densely covered with beads and sequins. Monica is blind and wears prosthetic eyes, having lost her sight at birth. Working with great dexterity, Monica threads sequins and seed beads onto thin pins, then uses her hands to feel along the foam in order to find their placement. The process is rhythmic and calculated. Monica’s exacting standards of bead size and color, foam shape and material, result in forms that are whole and perfect in their being. Visually rich and luminous, her sculptures are either monochromatic (red is her favorite color), or blooming with multiple hues as Monica creates layers by juxtaposing the colors of sequins and beads.
Monica has practiced at Creative Growth since 2012. Learn more about her life and practice in her online viewing room.
