Today we’d like to introduce you to Dr. Valerie Bennett.
Hi Dr. Valerie, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began my journey as an artist, studying art formally and building a career as a teaching artist that has now spanned over 25 years in art education. Teaching has always been central to my practice as it grounded me in both the creative process and the importance of access, mentorship, and community in the arts.
In the early 2000s, I became increasingly aware of how few opportunities existed for artists, particularly within gallery spaces. That realization became a turning point for me. I wanted to be part of creating a more equitable and inclusive art ecosystem, which led me to found Pencil on Paper Gallery. Through the gallery, I’ve been able to build meaningful relationships with local artists and provide a space where their work is not only shown, but truly valued, where creative expression and thoughtful content are at the center.
As I continued that work, I noticed another gap. Emerging artists often lacked guidance on how to navigate the art world professionally. That led me to develop Valerie Gillespie Contemporary, my nonprofit initiative focused on mentorship and artist development. Each year, I work closely with an artist-in-residence, providing one-on-one mentorship, culminating in an exhibition, and equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to sustain a career in the arts.
Now, in my seventh season as a gallerist, I find myself in a really rewarding phase, working closely with the artists I represent while also expanding through collaborations with galleries both locally and nationally. At every stage, my work has been about building pathways for myself, but more importantly, for others.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely has not been a smooth road, and I think that’s been one of the most important parts of the journey! Coming from an artist and education background, one of my biggest challenges was learning the business side of running a gallery. As artists, we’re not always trained in things like profit and loss statements, cash flow management, budgeting, or forecasting. So stepping into a role where I had to make decisions about investing in a physical space, managing payroll, understanding property taxes, and sustaining operations long-term was a steep learning curve! There were moments where I had to learn very quickly, sometimes in real time, how to balance supporting artists with maintaining a financially viable business. That tension between mission and sustainability is something I’ve had to navigate continuously. At the same time, those challenges pushed me to become more strategic and intentional. I’ve had to build systems, seek out knowledge from my support systems, and think not just as a creative, but as an entrepreneur. And now, that foundation allows me to better support the artists I work with, not just creatively, but professionally as well.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Pencil on Paper Gallery is a contemporary art gallery in the Dallas Design District dedicated to elevating voices. At its core, what we do is create a platform, not just for exhibition, but for meaningful engagement. We present work that is conceptually driven, culturally relevant, and rooted in strong artistic practices. While we show a range of styles, we’re especially known for supporting artists working in figuration as well as abstraction, and conceptual work that speaks to identity, history, and the lived experience. What sets us apart is our approach to relationships. We don’t just represent artists, we invest in them. That means ongoing dialogue, professional development, and helping them navigate the broader art ecosystem. My background as both an artist and an educator really informs that. I understand the creative process, but I also understand the importance of structure, presentation, and long-term career sustainability.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the trust we’ve built! Both with artists and with our audience. Collectors and visitors know that when they come into the space, they’re going to experience work that is thoughtful, intentional, and curated with care. And artists know they’re entering a space where their work will be respected and contextualized in a meaningful way. More than anything, I want people to understand that Pencil on Paper Gallery is about access and opportunity. It’s about creating space for artists to be seen, supported, and taken seriously. Ensuring that the work we present contributes to a larger cultural conversation is most important to me as a gallerist.
How do you define success?
I define success less by traditional metrics and more by impact and sustainability. For me, success is seeing the artists I work with grow! When they gain confidence in their practice, secure opportunities beyond the gallery, or build lasting careers in the arts, I feel at peace. It’s also about creating a space where artists feel seen, supported, and challenged in meaningful ways.
At the same time, success means maintaining a sustainable model and being able to continue the work, support programming, and build something that lasts beyond a single exhibition or moment. There’s a balance between mission and longevity that’s really important to me. I also think success is reflected in community. When people engage with the work, when conversations are sparked, and when the gallery becomes a place where ideas and culture intersect, that’s success! Ultimately, it’s about building something that has both artistic integrity and real, lasting impact for my community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://pencilonpapergallery.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pencilonpapergallery/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pencilonpapergallery/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@pencilonpapergallery
Image Credits
Shauna Benoit & Pharis Plus
