Deborah Padden
Deborah has been painting and teaching art since 1996. She lives in Ware, MA and is currently teaching at Workshop13. She paints portraits, still life and landscape paintings in all mediums. Her first medium was colored pencil. Her work over the years has been a painted in a number of mediums including watercolor and oil. This practice has expanded the type of classes she teaches. She has explored many techniques to help her art evolve and includes these techniques in her classes for her students.
She has been in many exhibits and in several galleries over the years. Retired recently, and with more time to spend on her art, she intends to become more involved in the art community and continue to exhibit her work. She loves to be with her husband Lee; their 3 sons Nate, Ryan, and Henry; Henry’s fiance Michelle; and their 3 grandchildren, Adia Rose, McKinzlee, and Hunter.
Artist’s Statement:
Making art is a joy!
The process of creating a painting is both energizing and challenging. In my work to date, I try to add a sense of mystery and fun brushstrokes to each painting. I love traditional work with a splash of Impressionism to express what I want to see on my canvas. I find myself creating tonal landscapes, realistic florals and portraits with fun brushstrokes. I work in all mediums and use the medium for that subject that I feel will give the best outcome.
Why I paint: It is a part of my journey to create and explore all mediums and subjects. To experiment and search for new ways to express my ideas. It is great fun and rewarding. The outcome of some paintings I will be happy with and some of them become studies. I love the challenge of painting from start to finish.
I try to paint as often as I can. I try to set aside 3 or 4 hours of time to paint in my studio. My painting could be an interest in a new subject or a new technique. I am always trying something new or find a new approach that keeps me interested in continuous study. Tonal paintings and realistic paintings with a touch of Impressionism are what I strive for. I have an interest in these style of paintings and have worked with a number of artists over the years who have provided great instruction that has led me to my current work.
The Artists who have influenced my work over the years, and have been lucky enough to be with are: Jack Kelejian, Dennis Sheehan, Diane Roth, Daniel Keys, Michelle Dunaway, Ed Mead, Sharen Harris, (online) Stuart Davies.
I hope my painting and teaching skills influence other artists to continue on their journey of practice and achieving their own voice. I wish to help them create what they think is beautiful and enjoy the company of other artists. My hope is that I brought a new tip or technique for future paintings that will bring them joy.