Gross McCleaf Gallery in Philadelphia is currently exhibiting some stunning works by abstract artist Val Rossman, a Bala Cynwyd native who has been teaching at Woodmere Art Museum for four years, writes Len Lear for the Chestnut Hill Local.

Rossman’s paintings are spatially complex and visually exciting, offering a vocabulary of geometric shapes, patterns, and calligraphy.

“Using abstraction allows me the freedom to depart from reality in order to express ideas and feelings more completely,” said Rossman.

Still, the Harriton High School graduate did not always see herself as a professional artist.

“In high school I actually took two art classes each day!” she said. “However, I didn’t imagine that I could be an artist as a career.“

She started out as a liberal arts major at Boston University before realizing she had made the wrong choice and reapplied to the School of Fine Arts. She then transferred to Tyler School of Art as a junior and graduated from there.

Rossman’s latest works will be on display through Nov. 30 on the gallery’s second floor, with the opening reception scheduled for November 8 from 5 to 7 p.m.

Read more about Val Rossman at the Chestnut Hill Local by clicking here.