Debra Ashley
Artist Biography
I grew up in Oklahoma and didn’t acquire an interest in creative art until I began working in stained glass. This practice led me to a desire to learn to draw, which began my journey to acquire my BFA in 3-D Studio Art. While taking my art classes I became fascinated with metalwork and the process of adding color to metal pieces. I satisfied my love of color with the use of enamels on copper and silver. After graduation I became interested in working with warm glass to create functional and non-functional vessels, as well as wall pieces. I enjoy combining my love of creativity and sharing an emotion or story with the colors, light, and movement of glass. I strive in my work to push the boundaries of my knowledge and materials, learning along the way.
Artist Statement
My work often focuses on vessels as my favored form. I am inspired by organic shapes and remains and also often by the play of light I see in my daily life. I use the juxtaposition of the modern feel of glass contrasted with the added dimensions of color and the reactions of color on the glass in my work to express my concept. I strive to convey an organic feeling by using clean elegant forms and sinuous lines along with the contrasts of color to capture and interest the viewer and draw them into the expression of my vessel. I also create wall pieces which are more freeform and whimsical, with my main focus being on the play of color and lines to pull the viewer in and draw their interest into and throughout the piece.
Debra is part of FRINGE Women Artists of Oklahoma and was in our exhibition, Fringe at The Art Hall, January - April, 2018.
