We recently connected with Debra Sheffer and have shared our conversation below.

Debra, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. One of the toughest things about progressing in your creative career is that there are almost always unexpected problems that come up – problems that you often can’t read about in advance, can’t prepare for, etc. Have you had such and experience and if so, can you tell us the story of one of those unexpected problems you’ve encountered?

The suicide of our 22 year old son marked the redefining of my life.
With that tragedy my husband fell into a depression which, in a few years, was accompanied by so many health issues that he was forced into early retirement. For me this meant that our plan for me to leave full-time employment to pursue painting was shelved. My income as the Director of Graphic Design at a private college was critical. The challenge was that, though I was highly motivated to paint and be recognized professionally, it became a tough juggle.
Recently retired now, I reflect on those years with appreciation that I persevered to create art. It was not only profitable but it made a positive impact on my mental health.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I am most interested in making paintings en plein air, but I also paint larger work in my home studio. I have been painting and exhibiting in galleries since the 1990s. I retired last year and have redoubled my efforts, feeling like an emerging painter at age 66.
I paint most often in oil but enjoy using gouache as well, particularly when traveling.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

For sure that would be my determination to keep painting right after the death of my son in 2008. Soon after, I resumed painting on weekends, making connections and forming somewhat of an artistic support group.

Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?

There are so many opportunities to learn (and relearn) about the practice of painting. From online workshops to in-person classes, they are affordable and targeted.
One practice that I found helpful for motivation was reaching out to venues to inquire about exhibition opportunities. This is only an option if you have the inventory to support it, so building up a body of work created a healthy push for me. The show opportunities at local vineyards, restaurants, and galleries have increased recognition in my region and connected me not only with buyers but with additional show opportunities.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://debrasheffer.com
• Instagram: debra_sheffer
• Facebook: @debsheffer
• Linkedin: 1789966
• Other: Instagram has become a stronger portfolio space than my website, which is not as relevant.

Image Credits

Teresa Harris