This website contains some of the work of Rita Valerie Strand, an artist based in Epsom, Surrey, UK. 

Rita originally studied for two years at Sutton and Cheam School of Art and Wimbledon School of Art.  Rita's working career has centred on computer aided design/draughting, only painting in her spare time when she has the opportunity.  In recent years she has been able to focus on her love of creating images.  

A member of Epsom and Ewell Art Group, she has exhibited her work at Bourne Hall in Ewell and at Denbies Wine Estate in Dorking during 2010 and 2011.  In October 2011 she exhibited at the Society of Graphic Fine Arts (SGFA) at the Menier Gallery in Southwark Street, London. 

The medium Rita uses for painting is most commonly acrylic, but sometimes oils or pastels.  For drawing she generally uses acrylic inks or water soluble pencils. 

Rita often draws inspiration from her travels.  Drawn to the exotic, her canvasses and drawings are in the main of African, Middle Eastern or Far Eastern scenes and people, although not exclusively..  She is also inspired by the diverse and interesting landscapes that can be found in many parts of the British Isles. 

Artists that have been influential are many, but notably Stanley Spencer, Pablo Picasso, Vilhelm Hammershoi, Frieda Kahlo, Paula Rego, Edward Hopper and Balthus.