Debbie Lear
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'I work with various media, flitting between illustrative drawing and pure abstract painting.
Each painting is the result of many layers, some are concealed, others graspable.
Weaving various imagery, I interlock colour and form, creating something tangible from memories, imaginings and myth.'
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My art and designs are inspired by the natural world and Celtic and Pagan mythology. At my home studio I weave folkloric symbolism with native flora and fauna in my creations, which include paintings, prints and stationery.
I am located in the South Wales Valleys, near the Brecon Beacons National Park. The scenery is diverse and beautiful throughout all of the seasons. I enjoy walking the hills and coastline of Wales and it is here that I find my inspiration, immersing myself in the landscape, trying to gain a deeper understanding of my homeland.
We have a word in Welsh, Hiraeth, which translates as a deep longing, or nostalgia for a place or time that is irretrievably lost to you. Creating allows me to soothe the hiraeth, to resurrect times and places through memory and myth.
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Find more of my work at the following sites:
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My work is a confluence of mythology, intuition, and the rich tapestry of Welsh culture. I delve into the mythological narratives of Wales, breathing new life into ancient tales through my artistic expression. The landscapes, characters, and symbols from Welsh mythology serve as both muse and framework, guiding my creative process.
My approach is deeply intuitive, allowing each piece to unfold organically. I often begin with a fragment of a story or an image from a dream, letting my instincts lead the way. This intuitive process is a journey of discovery, as I uncover layers of meaning and connections that speak to the timelessness of these myths.
In my art, you will find echoes of the Mabinogion, with its tales of gods, heroes, and mythical creatures. I strive to capture the essence of these stories, intertwining them with contemporary themes and personal reflections. The result is a dialogue between the ancient and the modern, a visual exploration of how mythology shapes our understanding of the world.
The use of texture and color in my work is deliberate, invoking the rugged landscapes of Wales—the rolling hills, dense forests, and stormy seas. These elements not only ground my work in a specific cultural context but also evoke the emotional resonance of the myths I seek to portray.
Ultimately, my art is an invitation to embark on a journey through the mystical and the mythical. It is a celebration of Welsh heritage and an exploration of the universal truths that these ancient stories still hold. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to reconnect with their own cultural narratives and the intuitive wisdom that lies within us all.
