VAL DAUGHTREY
Dreams don't have deadlines
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT
Valen Daughtrey aims to promote inclusivity and diversity in the arts community as a visual artist, illustrator, and educator. Growing up in the Edenwald Housing Projects in the North Bronx, he understands the importance of resources in the arts and he is passionate about providing programming, mentorship, and resources to young Black and Brown artists.
Valen believes in the power of culture, representation, and a shared mission, and has proven that treating people well is a catalyst to success. He practices building individualized connections with others to give them the keys to self-exploration and empowerment. Through his work as a Board Trustee at We Art One in Yonkers, NY, Valen focuses on fundraising and programming in arts education, as well as community outreach support with a focus on mentorships. He also worked as an Art History Course Instructor at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, NY, where he taught students effective note-taking and individualized peer tutoring focused on course content enrichment and personal growth.
Since 2019, I've had the privilege of working as an art history course assistant and tutor with the Educational Opportunity Program (EOP) at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT). As both an EOP alum and a supporter, I've witnessed firsthand the transformative impact of this admissions initiative, which provides individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds with the opportunity to pursue higher education. FIT has been offering EOP services since 1973, empowering students through supplemental academic, financial, and personal support. It's truly rewarding to assist EOP students in their educational journey, helping them overcome challenges and achieve academic success. I'm proud to be a part of this transformative initiative, promoting equal opportunities and brighter futures through education.
SUPPLY GIVE BACK
I had the pleasure of helping facilitate the distribution of free supplies to students at the Fashion Institute of Technology for the start of the Fall 2023 semester. It was a rewarding experience, and the students' enthusiasm and gratitude made it clear that these resources were greatly appreciated and would support their success. I'm excited to continue contributing to our students' educational journey in the future.
The Village Student Development Retreat
Over the weekend of November 17-19, 2023, participants of "The Village Student Development Retreat" immersed themselves in a dynamic program at Tarrytown House Estate. From engaging sessions on verbal communication to practicing and presenting speeches, the retreat buzzed with excitement and personal growth. As someone who played a part in facilitating the program, I'm thrilled to share some captivating photos that capture the energy and enthusiasm of this transformative experience.
VOLUNTEER WORK
Speaking to Our Ancestors” had a great turnout at the NRCA Rotunda Gallery. This was my first art show I helped to curate, and it was a truly memorable experience. The event began with a moment of silence, paying tribute to those who have inspired us and are no longer with us. Each artist introduced themselves and shared insights about their work, creating a powerful and intimate atmosphere. We were honored to have the Mayor of New Rochelle and other local legislators join us. Special thanks to Lynn Honeysett and Theresa for their invaluable support and contributions to this meaningful exhibition.
Valen recently joined the board of We Art One, a non-profit organization that focuses on building a strong community in Yonkers NY, through the provision of artist studio and coworking spaces, mentorship programs, and engaging programming.
We Art One believes that a vibrant arts community is vital to the success of any city, and they are dedicated to fostering an environment that enables artists to connect with one another and develop their skills.
As a new board member, he is excited to work with a talented team of individuals to expand the organization's reach and impact in the Yonkers and Westchester County area. Together, they will continue to provide artists with the resources and support they need to thrive, and build a community that celebrates creativity, diversity, and collaboration.
Our recent Artist Mixer was a tremendous success, filled with a vibrant atmosphere and a sense of artistic camaraderie. Artists and art enthusiasts from various backgrounds came together, forging connections and sharing ideas on how to advance the arts. We extend our gratitude to all attendees for their invaluable support and to our partners, We ART One and The Atelier, for their dedication to fostering a nurturing artistic space. Stay connected for upcoming events and opportunities as we continue to inspire and uplift the art community.
COOPER UNION PORTFOLIO PREP
Valen had the opportunity to participate in the Cooper Union Portfolio Prep Program, which provided him with valuable exposure to various art mediums and techniques. The program also emphasized the importance of etiquette and professionalism when working with nude models.
In addition to the hands-on art experiences, the program also helped Valen to build a sense of community among fellow artists and allowed him to explore different styles of art. The program also included visits to different schools and discussions with professional artists in the industry. Valen and his peers even had the opportunity to visit the studios of these artists to gain a deeper understanding of their work and creative processes.
Overall, the Cooper Union Portfolio Prep Program provided Valen with a valuable opportunity to expand his artistic knowledge and skills, network with other artists and professionals in the industry, and explore various artistic styles and techniques. The experiences gained through this program will undoubtedly serve as a strong foundation for Valen's future artistic endeavors.