Debra Nelson

Artist Statement

The pandemic shutdown stopped me in my tracks until the freedom of being at home gave me a burst of energy. I overcame my paralytic fear by working on a series of graphic images entitled “Joy”. My desire was to inspire joy among humans in the midst of this unpredictable deadly virus.The visual attributes that have a joyful quality are bright colors, simple bold shapes, angled edges and the comforting predictability of patterns. The image of a human body in an energetic pose evokes a sense of vitality and hope. The body in motion especially dancing, communicates clearly and immediately. Hey, spread your arms and hands to the sky and with your legs anchored firmly to the ground, VOILA you will be happy!

Bio

The importance of individual expression and understanding one’s visual world led me to teaching art for twenty-five years. I have a BA and Masters degree in art education from the University of Kansas. In San Francisco, I studied photography, textile design, intaglio, painting and figure drawing. My artwork was displayed in galleries and group shows within the Bay Area. In Lawrence, Kansas I started my teaching career, became part owner of a bookstore/cafe, showed my work in several art exhibitions and participated in experimental theater. 

In my retirement I spend my days in one or more of the activities described in the following sentences. A pull into to the rhythm of the music letting my body swing, my recorders toot and my guitar strum. Repeating body strokes in the comforting suspension of water caressing my body into serenity. Chopping, slicing, mincing, stirring and manipulating food to strike the senses hopefully in a most pleasant way. Hearing friends and or family chattering away. Cycling slow uphill and breathtaking swoosh gliding down. Taking long walks with my dogs and partner while cherishing the different visual views of each distinct season. The shaping of things in my hand making my soul sing with a sense of truly being here.