How do you describe your style?

Contemporary impressionism.

How long have you been painting?

Since 2007.

Do you paint everyday?

To become a better painter, one must paint! On most days, my creative focus involves painting.

Where did you study painting?

My first class in 2008 was a gouache workshop with Kate Worm at the Turchin School of Art at Appalachian State University. I’ve since taken classes at Yellow Barn Studio and the Washington Studio School, and I’ve participated in a variety of workshops. I now take only one workshop or class a year with a focus on a particular part of my technique that I’d like to improve.

Where can I find your work?

I post images of my WIPs - works in progress - on Instagram at @deborahsamsart.

In 2024, I’ll be participating in three plein air festivals - Southport, Blowing Rock and Edisto Island - and my work will be on exhibit at The Arts Club of Washington.

Beginning Spring 2024, Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery will be representing my work.

What’s your favorite subject to paint?

Landscapes in the city, in the country, and by the sea. I also like to paint still lifes with good shadows, translucent glass, and reflective surfaces.

Do you paint onsite or from photos?

Both. I painted only from life until 2020, when I began taking zoom classes and learned to paint from photos. I prefer painting onsite from life, however, and I like to do notan (dark and light value) sketches and color studies. I get a reference photo to take back the studio.

Do you draw your composition before you paint?

Yes, loosely, with attention to darks. I use a #2 round or filbert brush with a mix of either warm or cool gray paint and odorless solvent.

What kind of surface do you paint on?

En plein air, I paint on linen panels no larger than 12” x 16”. I enjoy working on stretched canvas in the studio for larger paintings. I’m experimenting with painting on primed cradled wood. I rarely paint directly onto a white surface - I tone in advance with oil in Burnt Sienna or Yellow Ochre, and sometimes with purple, pink, or gray.

What kind of paint do you use?

Oil.

Do you varnish your pieces?

Yes.

Do you have favorite brushes or painting knives?

Escoda Classico Brights from Spain hold lots of paint and are excellent quality. I also like Princeton Dakota synthetic bristle brights, flats and filberts. My favorite palette knife right now is No. 81 RGM Italian Plus.

What kind of easel do you use? What’s your setup?

My first was a traditional wooden French plein air easel, which is now setup all the time in my studio. My primary studio easel is lightweight aluminum and will accommodate up to a 40” canvas. For painting outdoors, I’m using a preowned Strada Mini. I have a handmade cigar box pochade for small outdoor studies.

Do you accept commissioned work?

Yes. I can work from photos. To begin, we agree on specifics with a simple contract secured with a non-refundable down payment of 50%. The contract includes an approval process for the work. The balance is due at delivery.

How do I purchase your work?

Visit Blowing Rock Frameworks & Gallery or contact me at deborahsamsart@gmail.com for information on availability, commissioned work, pricing, framing options, and shipping.