ARTIST DEBBIE HUGHBANKS By Marilee Hudon
Art Chowder : You ’ ve done some lovely still life paintings . Do you have a favorite ?
Debbie : My favorite changes frequently , but currently I would say that I have two , both pastels . One is titled Redbreast and depicts a robin next to some liquor bottles . I challenged myself to paint a realistic bird , the glass bottles partially filled with liquid , some beautiful reflections and shadows . I am really happy with the end result .
The second painting is of our cat , Lucky , sleeping in his favorite spot near the sliding door . The sun streaming over him was striking , and he was so content . I took artistic liberty and added a small mouse for a touch of humor , and to tell a story . We lost Lucky not too long ago , so the painting of him is very special to me .
Art Chowder : Pets are very important in your life aren ’ t they ?
Debbie : Yes , besides my horses , I also have some fish , and four parrots . Three of the parrots we hatched at our house . The fourth was a problem placement from the pet store , but we took him in and we love him very much .
I feel that animals are an extremely important part of our existence and should be treasured and celebrated by us as human beings . That is what I attempt to do through my art . There are so many people out there that form strong bonds and connections with the animals they share their lives with .
Art Chowder : Is that why you also do pet portraiture ?
Debbie : Yes , whether it is a dog , cat , horse or some other animal , many clients want to have a portrait painted of the companion and friend that has meant so much to them . Many times after their pet has passed away — people have a have a deep connection with their pets , and because I too love animals — I feel I am uniquely qualified to create a loving tribute of their friend .
I love talking to people about their pets , finding out how much they meant to them . I love to hear all the stories about what made their pet an individual , unique and special . I want to really get to “ know ” them before I ever start painting . Doing a good job on a portrait such as this is truly one of the most satisfying things I do as an artist .
Art Chowder : What was the most difficult painting you ’ ve had to do ?
Debbie : That ’ s easy . This year I was asked to do a painting of an asphalt paver and the paving crew . It was a challenge , but one I am glad I accepted . It was a very technical piece and a bit out of the norm for me . I spent a long time on it , but in the end I was pleased with it , as was the client .
Art Chowder : For anyone who wants to see more of your work , where can we find you ?
Debbie : You can go to my website hughbanksart . com , find me on Facebook as DebbieHughbanksArt , or search my name on flootie . com or artistsforconservation . org .
I am continuously showing at the Spokane Gallery in Spokane Valley , WA . I am currently showing at Artapalooza at the Liberty Building until Jan . 30th , and I will be the featured artist at Wenaha Gallery in Dayton , WA , Jan . 15 through Feb . 10 .
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