Deborah Perlman

What themes does your work involve?

I have been inspired by various themes, depending on what is in my mind and heart at the time. Recently, I have completed works focused on the themes of climate change, spiritual seeking, and emotional restriction vs freedom of spirit. All of the work explores space as a sculptural element. I invite viewers into the unknown and encourage them to challenge previous ideas and established thoughts.

Describe your creative process.

Surrounded by photos, colors, and materials, I start sketching spaces. From there, more detailed drawings show me how I will build the wall-mounted sculpture. I then create the three-dimensional forms, and adhere each element to the base, juxtaposing forms and shapes to highlight their points of contact and the shadows they cast.

What influences your work? What inspires you? Why do you make art?

Making art frees my spirit and allows me to fully express my inner self. There is no greater gift. My work explores ‘almost-but-not-quite-real’ spaces that land somewhere between real and imagined. I see sculpturally. When I see forms that have an exciting spatial dynamic, I am inspired and excited to visualize it in some way. The subject matter can change, but the pursuit of mysterious, intriguing sculptural space drives me to explore and create.

What is good art? What makes a piece of art great?

For me, great art must be provocative and engaging. It makes me stop, think, and consider my relationship with it. I agree with Artist Edward Fraughton who said, “Art is real and imaginary, two worlds rolled into one – the fulfillment of the artist’s insatiable soul.”

What is the role of the artist today?

An artist is a storyteller, creating a world inspired by emotions, experiences, and beliefs. Through the story, people come to their own conclusions and feel their personal connection to the work.