VALENTINA GUEVARA

ARTIST STATEMENT

I am drawn to the inherent tension between form and function. My current work focuses on ceramic stools—functional objects that invite use, yet also challenge expectations of what ceramics can physically endure. These stools are not only utilitarian but are sculptural explorations of stability, balance, and resilience—qualities mirrored in my daily life as both an artist and a parent.

This body of work explores the functional limits of the ceramic process, pushing stoneware beyond its conventional applications. Each stool is  hand-built, tested through weight, height, and structural stress to investigate where form meets failure. While grounded in utility, these objects exist on the threshold between sculpture and furniture, where function is not guaranteed, but questioned.

Alongside the physical exploration, my practice is shaped by the rhythms and demands of caregiving.

The themes that emerge—endurance, containment, transformation—are not just formal concerns, but reflections of lived experience. Each piece in this collection holds evidence of that negotiation between care and creation, between structural integrity and inevitable imperfection.

Through this work, I aim to capture the subtle strength found in the everyday: the objects we live with, the labor we don’t always see, and the resilience required to hold it all together.

Biography | Artist CV 

VALENTINA GUEVARA
About VALENTINA GUEVARA

Valentina moved from Toluca, Mexico to Montreal, earning her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Concordia University in 2006. After spending more than nine years dedicated to creating handmade tiles for public art mosaics. This experience enriched her artistic journey, through her intricate and vibrant ceramic works. Valentina relocated to Toronto. By 2021, she welcomed her daughter. By 2023, Valentina resumed teaching pottery, working as a studio technician, and dedicating time to personal projects. Her journey reflects a dynamic blend of cultural heritage, artistic dedication, and adaptability, as she continues to make meaningful contributions to the art world.

VALENTINA GUEVARA CV

Experience:
A Playful Narrative, Gallery 1065 Toronto Ont (2025)
8 person clay and glass exhibition
Wheelhouse PotteryStudios, Toronto Ont (2025- present)
Lead Technician,Studio Manager, and Pottery Instructor
ClayArt Studios, Toronto Ont (Dec.2018- 2025)
Lead Technician, Studio Manager, and Pottery Instructor
ArtsQuarters Gallery, Toronto Ont (Oct.2021-2024)
Pottery Instructor
Toronto Potters Association, Toronto, Ont (2019-2020)
Studio Technician
Gardiner Museum, Toronto, Ont (2019-2020)
Pottery Instructor
Occasionally held family day activity, pottery instructor at the Gardiner Museum
Inspirations Studio, Toronto, Ont (May 2018-Present)
Pottery Instructor and Studio Technician
“Inspirations studio is a unique low barrier ceramics program for women and gender diverse
people who experienced marginalization”
Mosaika Art and Design, Montreal, QC (2011-2017)
Project Manager/Assorted
Supervised and executed several hand-installed Mosaic designs within a budget and strict
.timelines. My overseen completed projects include:
2012 : Installation of a Shinique Smith mosaic at Mother Clara Hale Bus Depot, Art for
Transit for the MTA New York. Mosaic of 2500 sq. ft. with over half the project being hand built
ceramics.
2015 : Fabrication (glazing) and installation of 6 mosaics from different artists at the new General Hospital in San Francisco.
2015 : Fabrication (glazing) and installation of a mosaic for the new terminal 3 at San
Francisco International Airport.
2016 : Installation of two hand built mosaics for Chuck Close in New York subway, Arts for
Transit for the MTA New York (Open to the public 2017).
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT , MOSAIKA ART AND DESIGN
- 2011-2017
Responsible for the translation of various mediums into clay, including color matching, texture
and the sustainability of a piece based on its environment. Develop samples used as bids to
. secure contracts. Techniques included but not limited; sgraffito, mould making, transfers, high
fire, low fire, multiple firings, and paper clay.
INSTALLATION TEAM , MOSAIKA ART AND DESIGN
- 2009-2011
Travel throughout North America in order to install large-scale mosaics, including
: installations in New York and Los Angeles. Representing the company for the purchase of
materials in Mexico, including translation and price negotiation.
TILE PLACER AND GLAZING ASSISTANT , MOSAIKA ART AND DESIGN
- 2009-2011
Placing and cutting tiles for large scale mosaics with efficiency and color precision.
・ Glaze application and preparation. Follow and develop glaze recipes and techniques.

Volunteer and Apprentice Experience:
2005-2006
Concordia University, Montreal, QC.
- Student Technician and Apprentice
Assist with the efficient functioning of the ceramic studio and report to the Head
Ceramic Technician. Respond to student questions regarding specific techniques and safe
use of equipment with glaze application.
Mexico 2007
Studio Alfareria Soteno, Toluca, MX
- Studio Apprentice and Potter

Education:
Graduated June 2006
Concordia University, Montreal QC
- Bachelor of Fine Arts
Major in Art History and Studio Arts

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