We were lucky to catch up with Deborah Lansing recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Deborah, thanks for joining us today. One of our favorite things to hear about is stories around the nicest thing someone has done for someone else – what’s the nicest thing someone has ever done for you?
As an artist, I feel blessed to have such strong support from family and friends. I was introduced to John Pelico who is an incredible artist. John has taken me under his wing as my mentor. I’ve learned valuable lessons spending time with him. His expertise and guidance has taken me to a higher level.
Another talented artist who has always believed in me and my Moongoons is Debra Britton. Debra collaborated with me on my picture book “Meet The Moongoons”. Britton continues to offer her time and knowledge.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a native New Yorker. I came to California 30 years ago and love life here. California is beautiful and has been very good to me. I’ve worked in a myriad of industries such as Commercial Real Estate, Entertainment and Finance.
In the late 70’s I had a dream and when I woke up I started drawing my character and named them “Moongoons.” My characters are unique. I’ve never seen anything like them. I’ve created a tree that shows branches of products that I have now and what I want to create down the road. I look forward to seeing the Moongoons animated. When kids and adults see my work, they smile. Sharing the Moongoon stories and adventures is very satisfying.
I recently entered an Art Fair and a little boy loved my Moongoons. I asked him why and he said “Because they’re cool”. I thanked him and asked if there was anything else he liked and he said “The colors”. I asked him why the colors and he said “Because they POP”. My colors are adored by everyone.
I’ve always felt that my Moongoons are very Dr. Seuss like. I often hear this compliment. When I’m painting the Moongoons it’s very meditative. When I look at my finished piece, I’m all smiles and say to myself, “I love this!”. I want every child to know and enjoy my Moongoons and their friends. The Moongoons are sweet beings from the sky. They have a special friendship with the sun and the clouds. The sun guides them and the clouds carry them to their destinations.
Toastmasters has always played an important role in my development as an artist and business owner. I highly recommend Toastmasters to anyone who wants to increase their communication skills.
I also enjoy writing. I like rhymes. I created a Moongoon Christmas card and wrote the rhyme inside.
In addition to the Moongoons picture book, I plan on introducing a children’s book filled with stories about the Moongoon adventures.
What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?
When I’m in front of a blank canvas and choose my medium, my imagination tends to take over which gives me a feeling of strength and clarity.
Is there mission driving your creative journey?
My goal is knowing that my Moongoons are successful and world-wide. This will allow every child and adult to embrace the Moongoons for many years of enjoyment.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.moongoons.net
- Instagram: deborah.lansing.57
- Facebook: Deborah Lansing
- Linkedin: Deborah Lansing
- Email: [email protected]
Image Credits
Artist – Gina Raphaela – Headshot