September 12, 2019

Life and Work with Debbie Grossman

Local Stories

Today we’d like to introduce you to Debbie Grossman.

So, before we jump into specific questions about what you do, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
As a young child, I wanted to become an artist. Throughout the years I created art for enjoyment and used it as a therapeutic tool. When times of challenges occurred in my life, I produced large amounts of paintings. I decided to start selling my paintings in 1995. At that time, I placed second out of 1,300 artists in an international art contest. I have several repeat collectors and new ones as I create fresh new pieces. I would love to have my artworks on display in a museum one day.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Being an artist is not an easy undertaking as there are many tasks that need to be tended to in addition to the actual process of creating the artwork itself. There are many books and articles that give advice or insights on how to become a successful artist. I have tried countless types of information that I’ve read or was told to me and it turned out not to be the right advice. That was very frustrating at times, to say the least. That being said, there is not one formula or one right way to become successful. It is a learning process that can only be achieved uniquely by each individual. There is trial and error along with persistence, patience and the confidence in your art and yourself that will take you through to achieve success. If being an artist is something you love, just do it. Create as much as you can and when the time comes show it, enter contests and teach. When you teach, you learn. Go to galleries and museums. Then create some more!

So, as you know, we’re impressed with your art – tell our readers more, for example, what you’re most proud of as and what sets you apart from others.
As an artist, I am always experimenting with new ideas and techniques. One day, I was creating a background on a canvas and I wasn’t sure what to paint as my subject. My husband suggested that I meditate on it. So, I did. I saw a dove. That is what I painted. I looked at the dove’s eye looking at me. Then, I remembered a vision that came to me over ten years ago. It was a vortex of doves swirling around in the night sky. I felt protected.

I never painted that vision. However, after I saw that dove that I just painted, I decided to create that vision. In addition, I painted twelve strong women from the bible. Each one with a dove, a symbol of peace and protection. I created a book to go along with it.

That series is very different from anything I’ve ever done. My works over the years range in many different styles and genres. I am working on three different series at this time. Saturated In Blue, The Tree of Life, and a project that will take two years to complete.

Although, I really have gone through so many periods, one of my most successful series was Dragonflies In My Garden, of which, I sold thirty-five of thirty-eight paintings.

In addition to being an artist, I have taught people of all ages. I absolutely loved the six years that I taught children from kindergarten through fifth grade. They had such amazing energy! Unlike adults, they are not scared to make mistakes and are very open to using new techniques and materials.

I am grateful for the gift of art and being able to share my work and knowledge with the world. In addition, I am proud to have been able to have donated some pieces to different children’s charities and other organizations.

What advice would you give to someone at the start of her career?
The most important piece of advice that I can give to anyone is to do what you love and love what you do!

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