Featured Artists : Vala Ola

"Catch and Release"
Bronze Sculpture   -   23" x 19" x 14"

Vala Ola

Vala Ola is an artist who passionately and relentlessly seeks to create artworks that reflect her dedication to excellence.  Her classical training in Europe is reflected in her art.  Her figurative bronze sculptures are noted for their depth of expression and emotion.

Vala was born and raised in Iceland where her artistic talent was apparent from an early age.  At age 13 she attended classes drawing models from life.  Graduating from the College of Hamrahlid, she furthered her studies at the Icelandic College of the Arts, and again graduated from the Art Institute in Bournemouth, England.

She won the Icelandic Design Excellence Award for the first time at the age of twenty-six.  During her studies in England she placed two entries among the finalists at the Smithsonian Young Illustrator's Competition.  Returning to Iceland she was her countries sole representative at the Nordic Graphic & Illustration Awards.

Moving to the United States Vala finally reawakened her interest in sculpting after seven years of oil portraiture. She studied under several internationally known sculptors including John Coleman, Bruno Lucchesi, Walter Matia, Sandy Scott and Stanley Bleifeld. 

Vala's inspiration derives from her observation of life.  Even the most mundane circumstance will spark an idea.  Vala says, "I would like to inspire myself and others to have awareness and appreciation for our life."

Vala sculpts smaller and mid-size figures in her studio, as well as large monuments.  All her sculptures are cast in bronze.

Vala Ola is represented exclusively in Carmel by Gallery 1000.

For more artwork by Vala Ola, please contact at:
Gallery 1000, Carmel, CA: 831-624-9094