Meet Debbie – HDG’s very own senior interior designer and self-taught artist.
Experienced commercial interior designer Debbie has been with HDG for nearly 20 years. She’s worked on a wide range of projects and brought her special touch to each. Here, Debbie reveals what makes her work so distinctive:
When did you get into painting?
Ever since I was a child, I expressed myself in a creative form through painting, sketching, and drawing. Art has always been an integral part of my life, and it continues to be an outlet for me to relax and renew.
Have you ever worked in the industry as an artist?
I have been an interior designer for over 30 years and an artist for even longer. Prior to 2004, when I joined the HDG team, I worked as a professional artist designing and executing commissioned murals and art. As a side-line, I had the pleasure of teaching art at the elementary school level. It is deeply satisfying to know that my love of art has brought joy to others and inspired young people to explore their creativity. While I no longer work as a professional artist, art is and will remain my great passion. My work can be found throughout the homes of many residences of Darnestown.
Are you working on anything at the moment?
I take inspiration from nature, so right now, you’ll find me sitting on my the porch painting cicadas!
Does being an artist help you become a better designer?
Of course! Interior design is a 3-dimensional painting. The same concepts used in painting and drawing are analogous with interior design – proportion, color, texture, and lighting.
Do you have a painting tip for new artists?
There are no mistakes in art. You can tear it up, paint over it, change the art to something new and different, but there are no mistakes. The key is to express yourself and give light to the creative person within you.
Where do you find your inspiration?
Nature is my inspiration. We are blessed with the most beautiful colors and textures in our natural environment.