Field Review | Artist Interview Series
In conversation with
Deborah Saks
Deborah Saks moved to Liverpool
in 2022. With a background in photography and design, her journey into collage began unexpectedly in 2009 after attending a workshop led by Rosemary Luckett at the Torpedo Factory Arts Center in Alexandria, Virginia. From that moment, she was captivated by the medium. Through collage Deborah is able to create both whimsical and serious works of art.
From:
United Kingdom
Artist Statement
Deborah creates her collages using hand-cut paper and materials such as vintage and archival papers, newspapers, maps, sheet music, old and modern magazine images, and antique ribbons and buttons. She loves how paper adds texture and layers, making it a wonderfully versatile art form.
She enjoys working with geometric shapes and creating intricate repeat designs. Her work focuses on complex textures and bold colours. Her collages are complex and vibrant; full of rhythm and movement and radiate energy.
Tell us about yourself and your artistic background.
I studied photography and literature at George Washington University in Washington, DC. I lived in Paris for 5 years where my photographic eye developed. I only used black and white film and took photos of everything! Paris was a never ending art appreciation class. I discovered collage by chance (in 2009) and began working with bold colours and geometric shapes.
How would you describe your artistic practice?
I develop an idea for a collage and place images and shapes on paper and take a photo of the composition on my phone. I then clear the paper off and do another layout…snap another photo and again clear the paper. I get out my brushes and glue and begin gluing down the papers…referring to the photos a few times for reference.
My approach to collage is highly experimental, allowing me to explore patterns and designs as they naturally unfold.
What themes or ideas are most important in your work?
Geometric shapes and bold colours are the basis of my collages. Textures and layers allow me to create unique patterns and designs.
What inspires your creative process?
Moods and emotions, conversations and looking at other artwork. I love the Fauves, the Nabis, the German Expressionists and the Surrealists.
Can you tell us about a recent artwork or project?
“Circles of life” is an on-going series of abstract collages. The series is about the path a life takes: the choices made, the directions they open, the force of change that follows. I have made 37 pieces so far.
What challenges have influenced your development as an artist?
Finding the right niche for my work and expanding my following
What role does art play in your life today?
I go to galleries and exhibitions in many countries. I love discovering new artists and learning about how they express their ideas.
What are you currently working on?
“Postcards for peace”
for an auction to be held by the David Nott Foundation in London
“The purple thread”
An exhibition on “hospitality” presented in Marseille in Mid October
An abstract series called
“Studies in black and white”
What are your future goals as an artist?
I would like to explore branding and the licensing of my designs. I love product packaging and it would be thrilling to see my designs used with perfumes and wine labels.
Where can readers follow your work?
My instagram account is @deborahsakscollage
My website is www.deborahsaks.com
If anyone is visiting Liverpool October 12th through the 18th this year, some of my collages from the series “Circles of life” will be on exhibit at Cass Art.
The Katalyst magazine based in Prague wrote a feature on the series. The article can be accessed on their instagram
#thekatalyst_artmagazine
