Describe the type of art you create
Calming, water-like dream-scapes for my resin work, etherial landscapes to modern abstracts.
Does where you're from or where you currently live influence your work?
Absolutely! I’m always looking to be outdoors and have been drawn to nature since as far back as I can remember. Always noticing flowers, the sunsets, the way leaves move, how water reflects etc. Florida is incredibly inspiring!
What's your art background? Are you self-taught or did you study art?
Self-taught. Starting at a young age, I had dabbled in all kinds of arts and crafts, which led me to cooking, pyrography, sewing, painting (all mediums). One thing led to another, yet the interest in art stayed the same.
Are you a full-time artist or do you create around work hours?
I am now. As a mom, I was always trying to find jobs that would work with my daughters schedule, and on my off time I’d create in the early mornings and late nights. It wasn’t until I realized I was making more from selling my art than as a part time florist, that I decided to take the plunge and start a business full time. Had no clue what I was doing, and still wing it haha. Just more experienced now.
What do you love about the mediums that you use in your work?
With ArtResin I’m able to work quickly and instinctively. It’s such a fun medium to use, making me feel like a little scientist at times! Overall, the end result has me in awe every. single. time.
When did you discover resin?
Shoot. Instagram or YouTube had to have been where I saw other artists using resin, maybe back in 2015? I went down this rabbit hole of how to use resin when I found an Aussie Artist (Mitch Gobel), and started off in a shed out back in the winter time, making coasters.
How has resin impacted your artwork?
It’s been a constant, reliable medium to work with. I’ve been using this brand for 7 years now, and nothing else compares. Quick shipping when I run out, consistent results, beautiful finish! I could go on and on.
Can you provide a brief rundown of your process?
I draw up what I need built first. I hop over to Lowes to grab some 4x8 birch panels and some 1x2 poplar boards, some plastic paint buckets to stir the resin in, and some gloves. My dad has been a HUGE help with building the panels for me over the years. I also have a good friend from High School, Josh Price, who designs and cuts my FL signs with the heart cutouts. Without them, I don’t believe I’d be making the art I love as often!
Once I get my supplies, I prime and paint the base layers. Then, the first layer of resin is applied, where I add acrylic paints to create more depth and color. Next, the golds I use and white lacing is applied. Last, the layer that sets the piece off..is my clear coat. After getting all the bubbles out and making sure it’s free of any debris, I cover it with an enclosure that I made with pvc pipe and a plastic sheet for the curing stage. After that, it’s a matter of removing tape and painting edges, adding hardware and getting the artwork to my clients!
Why do you want to make art? What motivates you to create?
It’s what wakes me up in the morning! Having a way to express myself and create is the most freeing feeling I get other than being outdoors in the elements.
Does art help you in other areas of your life?
It does. Having incorporated the skills I’ve needed to run my own business from my past jobs, it has created freedom and flexibility to be home for my family. Not only am I able to work around schedules, I have the opportunity to create a space where I can do what I love, when and where I want.
What do you hope someone sees or feels when they look at your art?
I’m told often that my resin pieces are calming. I love that because I’m the most relaxed when creating them. Hopefully, my art not only brings a space together, but the piece itself offers a tranquil ambiance.
How do you define success as an artist? What does that look and feel like for you?
Being able to create to my hearts content without worrying about what others think. It has to be something that speaks to me first, I believe. I find a lot of folks try and don’t really give themselves the space to learn, grow, and fail. So much goes into being an artist. Many hats to wear, and you’ve got to know when to separate the art practice, from the business side. One without the other is not wise if you’re trying to reach that “full-time artist” status. I’m still learning this part. I tend to have this love-hate relationship with doing it all.
Having a good work flow. Not only creating commissions, but also making time for myself and creating pieces that resonate with me, too.
Where do you sell your work?
Word of mouth, online through my website, FB and IG
To see more of Debi's work:
Follow her on Instagram: @debi_perkins_art
Congratulations on your win, Debi!
Every month, to celebrate our community of artists, ArtResin will send out a 32 oz kit to two lucky people who have tagged us on Instagram, showing the work they've created with ArtResin.
ArtResin: Made For Artists, By Artists.
