The
Journey

“The pinecone symbolizes many things to different people. The meaning that I carry is that wonderful moments, ideas and exciting adventures grow once it is planted.”

— Val Upham

At the Root

It was in early Fall 1997 that I walked across a parking lot covered in pinecones. I admired the patterns and shadows they made in the afternoon sun. I was about to meet one of my design clients and thought it would be a nice gesture to bring the outdoors into the meeting, a pinecone.

Attending the meeting was a man, Michael Gauthier. He eventually became my husband. He explained to me that he interpreted the “pinecone” to mean more than I had intended. He thought it represented the growing collaboration between our companies. And… well, he liked me.

The pinecone symbolizes many things to different people. The meaning that I carry is that wonderful moments, ideas and exciting adventures grow once it is planted.

In honor of my husband,
welcome to Pinecone Studio where ideas grow.

The Heart

It has been my dream to offer collaborative, creative and educational experiences to developing talent; to be a resource which supports all creative thinkers and their process of bringing ideas to life.

Pinecone Studio is a collective experience built on gathering ideas, applying skills, sharing knowledge, developing creative vision and supporting Maine communities. Programs and events promote exploration and build active networks.

You are invited to come out from your studio and away from your desk to meet, to learn and to connect.

Pinecone Studio; where nurturing creative thoughts can inspire.

Our Team

Valerie Upham

FOUNDER, UPHAM DESIGN
Skills: Visualize; dream; build; and create.
Creative Inspiration: Waking each morning to the possibilities and opportunities offered from all that surrounds us.
Ben Borgers

COLLABORATOR
Skills: Web development; technology.
Creative Inspiration: Seeing the possibilities through others’ work.
Christy Jackson

CREATIVE FACILITATOR AND DESIGNER
Skills: graphic design; connecting people; expressive arts
Creative Inspiration: Finding beauty everywhere - especially unexpected places.
Deborah Ellington

COLLABORATOR
Skills: Graphic Design - 30 years in advertising/design
Creative Inspiration: It's everywhere!
John Wright

COLLABORATOR
Skills: All sorts of carpentry; woodworking and repurposing found objects, including wood assemblage, problem solving, and picture framing.
Creative Inspiration: Revealing the energy found within wood.
Julia Marlett

COLLABORATOR
Skills: Bookkeeping, Excel, office organizations.
Creative Inspiration: A drive with no place to be with all the possibilities for new photos.
Lynn Murphy

COLLABORATOR
Skills: Leadership, organizational development.
Creative Inspiration: Nature, history, culture.
Ollie & Bella

RESIDENT CATS