Clarissa Valaeys
Born in Brazil, Clarissa P. Valaeys studied Graphic Design at UFPR (Universidade Federal do Paraná) before moving to New York City in 2000. In NYC, she continued her studies at institutions including the School of Visual Arts (SVA) and Cooper Union, where she had the privilege of studying with design legend Milton Glaser (creator of the I ♥ NY logo). She had a successful career in advertising as an Art Director for 11 years, working for different renowned agencies. She later relocated to France and Switzerland, transitioning into a Creative Consultant role for world-class luxury brands such as Rolex, Chopard, and Tag Heuer.
After a 20-year hiatus, she returned to painting during the 2020 lockdown, a decision fueled by a desire to reconnect with the lush tropical nature of her Brazilian roots. She also became a yoga teacher during this time.
Now working from her Geneva studio, her art is dedicated to advocating for the protection of Brazil’s native ecosystems and bringing calm and grounding to spaces. This new path is also deeply influenced by her long-standing yoga practice, which began under the guidance of the renowned yoga master, Tao Porchon-Lynch.
