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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