Valma Howell facts for kids

Valma Ondine Howell (born June 15, 1896 – died December 16, 1979) was an Australian artist. She was known for her beautiful watercolour paintings of the countryside in western Victoria. Valma was also an actor.

Growing Up in Victoria

Valma Ondine Howell was born in Beaufort, a town where she lived for most of her life. For the first 14 years, she lived with her family on their sheep farm called 'Dookerimbut'. This farm was located between Beaufort and Skipton in western Victoria.

In the 1910s, she attended Ruyton Girls' school in Melbourne. Later, during a tough time called the Depression, she worked as a housekeeper. This was at a sheep station called Mooramong, near Skipton. Here, she became friends with Claire Adams. Claire was a famous silent film star from Hollywood. Claire was married to D.J.S. (Scobie) Mackinnon, who was in charge of the Victoria Racing Club.

Valma's Art and Acting

Valma Ondine Howell painted many famous scenes. These included areas around the Fiery Creek and the Yalla-Y-Poora property. She also had one known role in a film. It was called Night Club, made in 1952. This was one of only a few films made in Melbourne during that time.

In 1955, Valma traveled to India. After this trip, her art began to change. She started painting people and scenes that were more imaginative. Her sister, Ada Verdun Howell, was a poet and writer. They lived together for many years on Stockyard Hill Road. They kept a special bush area there. It was famous for its kangaroo grass woodland.

Family and Connections

Valma was the great-granddaughter of Captain Charles Swanston. He worked for the East India Company. He was also an investor in the Port Phillip Association. Valma was briefly married to another actor and entertainer, Joff Ellen.