Debra Samdperil

Artist Statement

Coming out is a lifelong journey of exploring and accepting multiple parts of ourselves and striving to identify and nurture what is always present. As an artist I experience this in every part of my being. I paint as a form of dialog, drawing from complex layers of memory that address identity, trauma, joy and intimacy - bringing all to a simpler surface.  My work is implicit, not conveying a specific narrative but owning the characters that sometimes emerge be them animal, human or other.  A conversation appears as the layering brings forward a story of sorts. I paint to bring voice to unresolved relationships, making peace with life’s turbulence while seeking humor within the chaos.

I was given the fortunate experience of observing my mother paint and draw often during my early years and although mesmerized and admiring – I equated the experience as complex and at times conflicted. I chose instead photography as my medium and for several years worked as a photographer and educational media producer. While parenting my child I pursued a career in arts administration and program management in Boston and then New York. I began to paint while earning a BFA from Tufts University, SMFA, Boston. I now dedicate myself full-time to my painting practice working from my studio in South Boston. 

I have exhibited work from Boston to Los Angeles and participated in numerous residencies from Montana to the Hudson Valley. My work is in several private collections.

Please access my website http://www.debrasamdperil.com for detailed Exhibitions, Residencies and Publications

Instagram: @art_debrasamdperil