Artist Statement: Deborah Jones
Born and raised in California, my journey as an artist has been shaped by diverse landscapes and rich cultural experiences. My academic journey took me to the University of Oregon, where a pivotal semester abroad in Siena, Italy, allowed me to immerse myself in the profound history of early Renaissance art. This experience deeply influenced my understanding and appreciation of artistic heritage and techniques.
With a degree in History in hand, I ventured through the Pacific Northwest, living in vibrant cities like Portland and the serene landscapes of San Juan Island. My quest for inspiration eventually led me to the majestic mountains of Telluride, Colorado, where I spent 14 transformative years. In Telluride, I found a unique opportunity to blend my creativity with practicality by establishing Mosaic, a faux-finish and interior consulting business. This venture allowed me to explore custom home decor and intricate wall finishes, merging artistic expression with everyday living spaces.
In 2007, the call of nature and the allure of Orcas Island brought me back to the enchanting beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Surrounded by the island's breathtaking landscapes, I have drawn endless inspiration from the natural world. My current work focuses on Venetian plaster artwork and photography, capturing the essence of Orcas Island's stunning environment.
Each piece I create is a reflection of my journey—infused with the historical richness of Renaissance art, the practical elegance of interior design, and the profound beauty of nature. My Venetian plaster pieces evoke the timeless textures and hues of classical art, while my photography endeavors to encapsulate the serene and dynamic essence of Orcas Island.
Art, for me, is a dialogue between the past and the present, the natural and the crafted. It is an ever-evolving expression of my surroundings, experiences, and the intrinsic beauty I find in the world around me.
Press
Design NJ, August/September 2016, “Enter the Unexpected”, page 97
Colorado Homes and Lifestyle Magazine, November/December 2012 issue, "Holiday Wish List"
Islands Sounder "Deborah Jones' Painting at the Artworks", May 2011
Orcas Issues, Voice of our Orcas island Community, November 26, 2014
Review by Terry Johnson, retired art professor, Orcas Island
https://orcasissues.com/art-worth-experiencing/
Education
•2003, Faux Finish Institute, Denver, Colorado emphasis on faux finishing furniture, architectural details and cabinetry
•2003, Faux Finish Institute, Denver, Colorado emphasis on textural wall surfaces
•2003, February, Lori LeMare Studio Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Studied faux finishing with emphasis on architectural details, furniture and gold leaf.
•1998, DaVinci Studios San Jose, California. Studied faux finish techniques and color theory
•1998-2007, Owner, Mosaic Painting. High-end architectural faux and fine painting, finish and design consulting.
•1992, Bachelor of Arts, History, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon
•1989, AHA International Study Abroad, Siena, Italy, emphasis in Pre-Renaissance and Renaissance Art History
Exhibitions
August 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2018 Participant in Orcas Island Artist Studio Tour
September 2013 Featured Artist, Washington Federal, Eastsound, WA
March 2013 Featured Artist, Islanders Bank, Eastsound, WA
October 2012 Featured Artist, Islanders Bank, Eastsound, WA
October 2012 Featured Artist, Washington Federal, Eastsound, WA
October 2012 "The Edge of Orcas" 2012, Orcas Center, Eastsound, WA
July 2012 Telluride Art Walk featured artist, Tweed, Telluride, CO
December 7, 2011 through Present Featured Artist, Tweed, Telluride, CO
April 2012 "On the Wall, Off the Wall", Orcas Center, Eastsound, WA
October 2011 "The Edge of Orcas" 2011, Orcas Center, Eastsound, WA
June 1, 2011 through June 30, 2011 Featured Artist, Artworks Gallery "Hot" Wall, Olga, WA
March 2011 "On the Wall, Off the Wall", Madrona Room, Orcas Center, Eastsound, WA
February 2011 "On the Wall, Off the Wall", Orcas Center, Eastsound, WA
January through March 2011 Featured Artist, San Juan Insurance, Eastsound, WA
July 2010 Featured Artist, Washington Federal, Eastsound, WA
January 2010 Featured Artist, Key Bank, Eastsound, WA
September 2009 Featured Artist, Islanders Bank, Eastsound, WA
March 2009 through July 2009 Outlook Inn and New Leaf Cafe, Eastsound, WA
February 2009 Featured Artist, Washington Federal Bank, Eastsound, WA
December 2008 through March 2009 Featured Artist, Christina's Food and Wine, Eastsound, WA
November 2008 "The Edge of Orcas",1-Way Exit Gallery, Eastsound, WA