Velling's interest in art began at the age of 5 drawing for hours, moving on to painting her toys with house paint, and finishing her education with a fine art degree. Her paintings have been published in brochures and magazines, on posters, and in a book for the Seattle Public School System. As an experienced teacher, juror, and textile artist, Velling became a full time painter after ending two decades designing silk opera coats, jackets and more for her clientele in the U.S., Canada, England, and the Orient. In 2001, she felt it was time to move on to painting full time and pursue her passion for creating beauty and harmony in mixed media paintings. Velling states, "It is not enough to know the intensity of the chroma or value to render an image. The effort comes from trying to make my emotions connect with the heart of those who view my paintings. The motivational factor that drives me is the need to make art, fine my voice, and let it speak volumes to all who will listen through their eyes". Talent mixed with passion is the magic that you will discover in a Velling painting.