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fter graduating from Art College,
Debbie embarked on a career in
graphic design, before becoming a
successful children’s book illustrator
as well as establishing herself as a painter in commercial
and private spheres. She gradually realized however that her
work was more suited to the wall, finding herself frustrated
by the boundaries imposed by the page. However, this
career as an illustrator instilled in her the desire to create
character within the painted image and this intention is
never far from the surface. Whether depicting animals,
people or places, Debbie conveys a deeply personal
impression of each subject, through a progression of
expressive paint techniques, colour, light and movement.
Debbie creates her intuitive compositions on canvas using
heavy bodied acrylics with a rich, almost buttery texture
and a variety of glazes. Working quickly at the initial stage
to block in the main elements of the composition, she then
layers her paints to create depth and vibrancy. Her art is
characterized by an energy and vivacity which reflects her
personal warmth and humour and the joie de vivre she feels
when faced with a subject that captures her imagination.