Biography

Virginie Snyder was born in Northern France, near the Belgian border.

At age five, she began to receive instruction from her uncle, a Flemish painter skilled in the art and science of making traditional pigments. Under his tutelage, she reproduced classical masterpieces using pencil, pastel and paint.

Virginie went on to study at the prestigious 'École Nationale Supérieure des Arts et Industries Textiles' (ENSAIT). This formative experience led to an extensive career as a decorative painter throughout Europe, Asia, North and South America. California has been her home since 1975.

Her love for light and color are also explored through a passion for landscaping. Native Californian flora and fauna (as well as homegrown fruits and vegetables) provide an endless source of fascination and inspiration.

Virginie is thrilled to be a member of the Ojai Studio Artists and also a valued member of the Topanga art community in Los Angeles County. She enjoys sweeping up and down the coast from canyon to canyon, but the Matilija Wilderness studio is her true sanctuary: a sacred space for contemplation and creation.

Virginie’s watercolors and oils are held in private collections around the world.