I am a creative, a fashion designer, an artist.

I have a deep passion for bringing beauty and artistry to the world. My journey in the industry began in Norfolk in the 1980s, where I studied fashion design and manufacturing. Those early years were not only about honing my skills but also about sharing my knowledge and expertise with others, which I did whilst teaching at The Norfolk Institute of Art and Design.

In the year 2000, I took a leap of faith and opened my own bridal business. It was a venture fuelled by determination and a desire to create something truly special. Over the years, my business thrived, and I became known for designing exquisite bridal gowns that captured the essence of each bride's unique style. However, in 2006, I made the difficult decision to disband my business. As a single parent, my focus shifted to raising my two small children, and I dedicated myself to ensuring their well-being and happiness.

The year 2017 marked a pivotal moment in my journey. Eager to rekindle my artistic spirit, I ventured back into the realm of education, taking on the role of an art technician at a local college. This position not only allowed me to immerse myself in the world of art but also provided an opportunity to share my knowledge and passion with a new generation of students. As time went on, I started teaching night classes, embracing the chance to inspire individuals wanting to explore their creative side through textiles and sewing.

Embracing the artist's environment once again started to nourish my soul, igniting a renewed passion within me. However, just as I felt the fire of creativity burning bright, an unforeseen obstacle emerged- the pandemic. Like a lightning bolt it struck, disrupting the lives and plans of people worldwide. During this time, like countless others, I grappled with the weight of my mental health. However, amidst the turmoil, I discovered solace and healing through my passion for art and creation. Having never formerly trained as an artist I dedicated myself to nurturing my own creative pursuits and to finally teaching myself to paint. For a decade, a blank canvas had loomed above my bed, untouched and pristine. Fondly dubbed "Polar Bear in The Snow" by loved ones, it became a running joke, a symbol of my fear of making mistakes or veering off the expected path. Though longing to paint it, I hesitated, imprisoned by the confines of self-doubt. Nevertheless, I defied my own inhibitions; with a fearless spirit, I ordered paints online, and so began the enchanting dance between brush and canvas. A mesmerising myriad of blues, aquas, turquoises and purples freely flowed, caressing the perfect white canvas and transforming the once plain and lifeless "Polar Bear in The Snow" into a vivid reflection of my hidden emotions, reverberating with unspoken stories and joyful liberation. Finally complete, I marvelled at the transformation that had taken place. The "Polar Bear in The Snow" had shed its monochromatic skin, emerging as a kaleidoscope of emotions and experiences.

Today, in 2023, after enduring the trials and tribulations of the past few years, a collective moment of introspection has prompted a seismic shift within me. I've resolved to return to the core of my being, to embrace my true, authentic, and creative self. Boldly embarking on this path, I have taken a leap of faith and opened my art studio in the quaint town of Stalham, Norfolk. Nestled within its modest dimensions, my studio becomes a sanctuary, a place where my imagination finds freedom and flourishes. Here, I create and curate a stunning array of eclectic artwork that reflects the unique tapestry of my soul. Each stroke of colour, each harmonious blend, bears the signature of my unwavering passion. As visitors step into my studio, they witness the manifestation of my artistic evolution. Sculptures emanate an unspoken language, inviting viewers to ponder introspectively. Graceful mosaics, painstakingly crafted from shards of glass, celebrate the beauty found within fragments and imperfections. Within these walls, my art stands as a testimony to resilience, courage, and the unwavering human spirit. And above all, the canvas that had long evaded transformation still hangs proudly above my bed, forever my cherished "Polar Bear in The Snow." This piece is a joyful reflection of my unleashed soul. It not only symbolises the triumph of overcoming fear but also holds the honour of being my very first print to grace another's space. Its significance transcends time and remains etched upon my heart. In this era of re-evaluation and reinvention, I am steadfastly committed to embracing the full extent of my creative prowess. My art studio is not merely a space for self-indulgence but a haven for fellow souls seeking a connection with authentic, emotive artistry. Together, we can revel in the transformative power of creation, nurturing our spirits and bringing untold inspiration to the world. Come, wander round my art sanctuary, and immerse yourself in a tapestry of daring colours, eccentric designs, and boundless imagination. Step into a world where art breathes life into the essence of our shared humanity, where the journey of self-discovery is emboldened through every brushstroke and mosaic shard.

I am Deborah Phillips, a creative force, an artist, and I am ready to make my mark once again.

Polar Bear in the Snow

“Art is standing with one hand extended into the universe and one hand extended into the world, and letting ourselves be a conduit for passing energy.”

—

Albert Einstein