Debbie Stephens invites us into her world of creation, where each stroke of her brush or pastel pencil tells a story of resilience and passion and a pursuit of perfection. From a young age, art wasn't just a hobby for Debbie; it was her lifeline, offering solace and an escape.
Debbie's journey into art started in childhood with a simple gift: a set of oil paints. She also found joy in working with pencils and hard charcoals, which paved the way for her later experiments with acrylics and graphite. Today, she's captivated by the gentle charm of soft pastels and pastel pencils. Her love for both animals and art fuels her creativity, creating an enduring passion for self-expression. Influenced by those around her and inspired by the works of her favourite artist, Georges Seurat, Debbie's artistic path is a blend of personal exploration and external inspiration. Recently, she has found joy in painting cars and still life, adding fresh dimensions to her artistic repertoire.
In her creative process, after finding a subject that she feels a connection with, Debbie meticulously layers pastels to capture the essence and personality of her subject, a process infused with dedication and a pursuit of perfection. “I leave my finished art in a prominent place, so I see it with fresh eyes every time I enter the house. That way I can see if it needs more work, it will tell me when it’s complete”.
Her art has evolved over the years, shaped by a pivotal moment when a life-threatening situation created an opportunity for Debbie to come to the Whitsundays and to create again, something that she had not be able to do for many years. "Not being able to create and paint is like losing half your soul," she muses, underscoring the profound impact of art on her life.
Looking ahead, Debbie's aspirations and goals are as vibrant as her creations. Despite facing many personal challenges both creative and personal, Debbie's spirit remains undaunted. Through small, achievable goals and unwavering determination, she continues to push the boundaries of her creativity; with an eye on upcoming exhibitions and festivals, she eagerly anticipates the opportunity to showcase her work and connect with a broader audience.
For aspiring artists, Debbie's advice is simple yet profound: “Create in a way that pleases you, surround yourself with positivity, and embrace the transformative power of art. It is all about the feeling it gives you and how that enhances your life both physically and mentally”. As she reflects on her journey, Debbie's story serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that through art, we can find healing, purpose, and a deeper connection to the happier aspects of the world around us.
Debbie will be adding new artworks to her gallery over the next few weeks, so look out for them in her CCW gallery.
Awesome Artwork
I love that cat, such an intense look in her eye.