Meet Brianne Valentino | Abstract Painter and Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brianne Valentino and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brianne, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
Nothing makes me happier then creating a new piece of artwork. I live to paint. I have found that creating is one of my favorite ways to express myself.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
My journey as an artist began during my childhood in Vernon, New Jersey, where I first showed a natural interest in the arts. The spark truly ignited when my aunt gave me a point-and-shoot Polaroid camera for my birthday—a gift that became the starting point of my creative path.

In high school, I began exploring photography more seriously, taking classes and learning the fundamentals of film. My passion deepened when my uncle passed down his old film camera to me, giving me the tools to refine my eye and grow as a photographer. I pursued this interest academically, earning an Associate’s Degree in photography from Sussex County Community College before transferring to Montclair State University. There, I was honored with the area award for photography during my class’s BFA exhibition.

My practice evolved into a multidisciplinary one after several close family members were diagnosed with cancer. In response to the emotional weight of that time, I turned to painting as a form of therapy and self-expression. In the privacy of my studio, I began creating three-dimensional, layered paintings that became a space for healing and processing grief. Painting allowed me to release emotion in a way that felt safe and honest—without placing the burden on those around me. After the passing of both my grandmother and aunt, I found myself drawn more and more to the canvas, ultimately committing to painting as a vital part of my artistic life.

As I developed my practice, I became fascinated by texture and layering. I created an entire series of three-dimensional works, then began experimenting with catalyst tools to build depth using acrylic paint. My current body of work is primarily abstract, reflecting my need to express emotions through gesture, brushwork, and mark-making. Each piece is influenced by my mood—every brushstroke, color, and texture responding to how I feel in the moment. Some days, my process is bold and intense; other days, it’s more delicate, incorporating fine details with tools like Posca markers. Painting has become not only my creative outlet but also a way to stay grounded and clear my mind.
At the core of my brand is a deep belief in the emotional power of art. My work is rooted in storytelling—not just mine, but the stories my collectors feel when they experience a piece. Through layered textures, intuitive mark-making, and intentional color choices, I aim to create artwork that resonates emotionally and energetically.

Color plays a central role in everything I create. I view color as a language—each hue carries a mood, a memory, a message. The blues in my work often speak to calm and clarity, while warm tones evoke energy and optimism. These colors aren’t chosen randomly; they’re felt. As I work, I let intuition guide my palette, knowing that the right combination can gently stir something in the brain—releasing joy, peace, and maybe even a bit of dopamine and serotonin. It’s an emotional conversation between the canvas and the viewer.

My paintings live in the space between simplicity and complexity. On the surface, there’s a sense of calm—open space, soothing tones, and gentle movement—but as you look closer, you’ll find layers, depth, and tiny details that invite contemplation. This push and pull creates an experience that’s both grounding and uplifting. It’s not just about what you see; it’s about what you feel.

Collectors often tell me that my work brings a sense of peace into their home or office—a daily reminder to breathe, to feel, to reconnect with themselves. Whether it’s a large-scale statement piece or a small, intimate canvas, I design each work to carry emotional weight with a lightness that doesn’t overwhelm. Instead, it quietly transforms a space, elevating energy and offering a moment of pause in a busy world.

My brand is built on that very idea: art as emotional wellness. Art as visual therapy. Art that meets you where you are—but gently lifts you a little higher.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My top restaurants in the area:

1. Applewood Winery- delicious pizzas and wine!
2. The Fed- drinks and food are amazing
3. Dairy Swirl- SHHHH! Keep this one a secret amazing
4. Cork Wine Bar- Delicious food and wine
5. 100 Main- Great Italian food and drinks
6. The Quarry- best smash burgers in the area
7. Tomato Garden- Great local pizza
8. Crystal Tavern- another amazing food spot

Top things to do:
1. Take them on the Appalachian trail
2. Walk around Warwick, NY
3. Take them to some other wineries on the Shawangunk wine trail
4. Take them to the oldest winery in the U.S., Brotherhood Winery
5. Go to Morris Museum to see some art
6. Go to Montclair Art Museum
7. If it’s warm out take a trip down the shore for the day
8. Find a local workshop and create together
9. Book a spa day at Crystal Springs

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Richard Schnurr was one of my first collectors. He has turned into a great friend and mentor.
Emily Konopinski owns a local gallery and gave me my first solo show. She has been very encouraging and a great mentor as well.

Website: https://briannevalentino.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briannevalentinostudio/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianne-valentino

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/briannevalentinostudio/