About the Artist: June Valentine-Ruppe
About the Cover Artist
October 2024 Issue
About the Cover Artist — June Valentine-Ruppe
by Lindsay Gifford
This month’s fantastical and festive cover art is by June Valentine-Ruppe, a self-taught artistwho was born and raised in California, where she always had a passion for art. For more than 30 years, June illustrated over 120 children’s books for Disney, Scholastic, Golden Books, and more. In the books, she illustrated beloved characters from Sesame Street to Disney, and Lamb Chop to Barney the Dinosaur. She even created artwork at special backstage VIP events at Disneyland. When I asked if she still worked as an illustrator, June replied, “For many years now, I have devoted myself to creating my own original artwork.”Her original paintings are a far cry from Mickey, Minnie and Barney, as evidenced by the work on our cover entitled, “Mardi On”. Displayed in Gallery Orange in New Orleans, Louisiana, June tells us she always tries to create art to represent the location of the gallery, and this one is no exception—it’s all about New Orleans and Mardis Gras.
“I enjoy the energy and excitement in New Orleans during Mardi Gras and try to capture that in some of my art pieces. Laissez Les Bons Temps Rouler, (Let The Good Times Roll),” said June!In fact, June almost exclusively paints women. “I enjoy showing all facets and types of women. They can be sentimental, strong, whimsical, edgy, quirky, or sophisticated. One size does not fit all. There is so much to work with—expressions, hair styles, makeup (the more the better), fashion, all which make it more fun and interesting.” June filters many artistic influences through her own perspective and brings us images of women who seem both familiar and worldly. Most of her subjects are unapologetically staring directly at us from the canvas. Many of her paintings celebrate women’s empowerment, and while she still loves painting in small format, she has recently begun painting larger canvases.
How lucky are we that this talented illustrator has turned her time and attention to painting? As June said, “My real love has always been painting on canvas, which gives me the freedom to create my own original artwork. I love bringing interesting characters to life.”
And what interesting characters they are! From princesses to superheroes to late-night party girls, June captures the humor, complexity, beauty, and imperfection of women. One of her subjects may have smeared lipstick, running mascara, or a crooked tiara, but you can see in her eyes that she’s about to straighten that crown, clean that face and start fresh!
June’s work can be seen at Gallery Orange, New Orleans, LA; Mary Martin Gallery, Charleston, SC; POP Gallery, Santa Fe, NM; and The Vault Gallery, Cambria, CA.
You can also check her out on www.facebook.com/june.valentineruppe