Featured Artist Deborah Gregg

Eclectic artist Deborah Gregg creates an array of fascinating art and objects. See more from this artist by visiting her website.

 

 

All through my life, my hands were always making something. Earlier on, before it was chic to use junk in art, I used dry food boxes and salvaged electronic components to make jewelry. Also, I created other functional objects, like re-crafted furniture and jewelry boxes using paint, leather scraps, wood boxes and beads, etc. that I sold in local galleries and stores.

Having a background in graphic design, illustration and art direction, I have always been drawn to the written word and typography. I received my art education just before the desktop computer appeared, so my undergraduate graphic design training focused on typography as an artistic element.

 

 

When I began to focus on fine art, I spent much time soul searching to figure out where to begin. I knew my work would incorporate a mix of materials and I had always been drawn to three-dimensional, textural art. I used my journal writings as a jumping off point for the subject of my pieces.

 

 

I had a solo exhibition in 2012 that was named ‘Inscriptive Manifestations – The Inner Voice’. Each of these works, containing a combination of found materials and self-created objects, has writings embedded in them. The source of the writings comes from the thought that we all have that voice in our heads that quietly talks to us. It is those very private thoughts that we keep silent.

 

 

I have always been curious and fascinated by what people are thinking. My belief is that we are more alike in our private thoughts, rather than what we openly share. I have found, through showing my work, that my suspicions were correct. Many viewers, after reading my writings and viewing the work have been decidedly moved, sometimes to tears. The work seems to touch many people on a deeper, emotional level that gives rise to human connection. It is for those times that I create my work. When I have connected with people in that way, it is very satisfying to say the least. I believe art is truly memorable when it evokes some deep emotion.

 

 

Recently, I have begun a series of textural mixed-media paintings that are created in an unplanned, more subconscious manner. I include typography and numerals amidst a mix of a variety of layered materials, giving the perception of depth. Here, I am focusing on absolving control. It is as if I am letting the paintings do the thinking and I am just the messenger.

 

 

I am interested in revealing layers to increase understanding. Layers, such as those you might find on buildings from years of painting or advertising and theater posters, layered one on top of another. Or layers of thoughts people hide beneath the surface and do not share. Might we connect better if we reveal those layers?

 

 

The goal of my work is to create an emotional connection for the viewer, while giving them an opportunity to create their own personal story thru my art. I believe art is truly memorable when it stimulates contemplation, while at the same time evoking deep emotion. It is those moments that inspire me.

 

Deborah Gregg invites you to follow her on Facebook.