In my art studio (2024)

Years ago, a piece of colorful metal artwork in my in-laws’ home caught my imagination and basically changed the trajectory of my artistic life. I was so transfixed by it that over time I pivoted from abstract painting into metalwork, just so I could try my hand at making my own. I got a little carried away and created a collection of what I called metal mosaics — arrays of painted, torch-fired, distressed, and patinated copper and steel squares suspended from copper pipe — and with this collection I rented an art booth at the 2016 Abbot Kinney Festival in Venice, CA. Customers seemed drawn to the work and commissioned custom metal mosaics, so in early 2017 I joined the beloved Ten Women Gallery on Montana Ave. in Santa Monica, CA.

As my metalsmith skills developed and I sought ways to make the colors on my metalwork more vibrant and more permanent, I discovered enameling, the art of fusing layers of powdered glass onto metal at high heat (like in a 1500°F kiln). Once I saw those gorgeous enamel jewel tones, that depth of color, and that luminosity, I was hooked. Enameling is an exciting mad-scientist mix of art and chemistry, and it’s full of surprises. I enjoy creating enameled metal mosaics, mobiles, dishes and jewelry because I’m constantly learning, experimenting, problem-solving and collaborating with clients and designers on custom pieces.

A Brown University alumna and longtime New Yorker, I’ve lived in Santa Monica, CA with my family since 2012.

At the Abbot Kinney Festival in Venice, CA in 2016.

Kind words from clients

Testimonials

When I saw Deb’s artwork in the Ten Women Gallery in Santa Monica, I immediately fell in love and wanted a piece for my home. Working with Deb was an easy, amazing process. Her magical artistry created a mosaic that looks perfect in its spot.

— Sheryl Dovitz (Michigan)

“Her artwork is magnificent, but what made the experience of working with Deb unique and extraordinary was both her complete dedication to process and her commitment to partnership. Deb worked tirelessly to make every aspect of her piece the best it could be, from consulting engineers and chemists to endless experimentation. This extraordinary dedication is reflected in the awe-inspiring final work. Collaborating with Deb was unlike any other commission — she included me in every aspect of the design and creative process, which gave me a unique sense of ownership and perspective on Deb’s final masterpiece. It was a true joy to work with Deb and I am thrilled and inspired daily by her work.”

— Kristina Morris (Pacific Palisades, CA)

I was drawn to the shimmering colors of Deb’s work at the Abbot Kinney art festival. Once I met Deb and learned about her process, I made one of the great decisions of my life: I ordered my own. Deb visited my house, took notes on what I liked, and sifted through tiles from a vast and colorful collection. She was with me every step of the way, inviting me to her studio to review my mosaic and shift colors and tiles, and e-mailing with photos and other choices. When I arrived to pick up my mosaic, it was even grander than I had ever expected. I’d earmarked a space for it in my garden, but I decided to replace a picture in my living room with Deb’s creation. I appreciate it daily.

— Wendy Fairbanks (Venice, CA)

I have never thought of myself as an art collector, but when I saw Debra's metal mosaics I was so transfixed, I realized that I wanted to have my very own piece to hang on my wall for inspiration and a sense of calm every day. Debra is a true artist who can bring together different mediums to create harmonious pieces that feel completely natural and pure.

— Carrie Berman (Santa Monica, CA)