Valerie S. Goodwin received degrees in architecture from Washington University in St. Louis and Yale University. She lives in Tallahassee, Florida, and teaches architectural design at Florida A&M University. Valerie has a studio space in a popular warehouse area for artists near the campus where she teaches.She became very interested in designing and making quilts in 1998 as an outgrowth of her architectural background. The pursuit began as part of an investigation in the design classes that she teaches, in which she asked students to explore parallels between architecture and quilting. They studied issues related to composition, ordering systems, color, and pattern. What began as a teaching tool became a passion and grew into a successful career as a fiber artist.Her award-winning work has been widely published and exhibited. She gives lectures and workshops nationally and internationally. Most of her work is inspired by her love of aerial views of landscapes and cities. Many of her quilts are based on maps. Her art has moved through various stages from traditional quilting to an interest in abstract expressionism. However, she is most passionate about creating work inspired by real and imaginary landscapes and cities.Find out more about her workshops, lectures, and commissions at her website, www.quiltsbyvalerie.com