Deborah Splain

Contemporary

Artist Statement

Statement: Deborah Splain

Inspiration for my current body work strives from everyday life, and events and how we make our own connection because as human beings we look for these connections. It is a process that helps me move forward and perhaps the audience it captures. I am influenced by artists like Helen Frankenthaler, Dali, Klimt, and Louise Bourgeois. These artists explore themes of abstract expressionism, symbolism, and surrealism; motivating my approach to painting, drawing, sculpture and storytelling.
My layering process of materials consisting of acrylic, oil, Venetian plaster and gold leaf help weave my stories. I encourage viewers to confront and examine their own emotions and experiences. The layers are woven into each of us and help propel our transformation.
I believe there is beauty in vulnerability and strength in our shared struggles. Acknowledging the mysteries we cannot fully understand allows us to unite in empathy and embrace these complexities together. Ultimately, my art is a dialogue- a safe place that brings new meaning to symbols we have already established relationships with and creates new deeper interpretations. It is a place where emotions intertwine, mindfulness flourishes and the belief in our collective strengths transcends the challenges we face.
Bio:
Deborah started as a muralist and received a grant for Women’s Art Institute Studio Intensive/MCAD(Minnesota College of Art & Design), where she was involved with the WARM- Women Art Resources of MN). She was drawn to Arizona, after painting her rock imagery and started showing her work out in at the Creative Center of Scottsdale, but soon left for the beauty of Sedona. Deborah, now resides in Tucson AZ.
(The artist does commissions & donates her work to raise money for Breast Cancer Events, Children's Theatre, and Make a Wish foundation and Humane Society, and Tohono Chul).