Debra Susan Gross
I am a painter who enjoys working in both acrylics and oils. I have fun with acrylics because they dry so quickly and can be easily mixed with other media. I enjoy the rich colors, textures, markings, and subtle gradations of tone that can be achieved through oil painting. I think that I have benefited greatly from working with both.
I begin each painting with a successful drawing. Using the sketch, I then begin composing on the canvas. My process is a combination of planning and also allowing good things to happen as I paint. Oftentimes, I tone the canvas using either colored gesso or acrylic paint before I block in the composition. Then I begin the process of laying down the colors. I employ various techniques in my paintings including, glazing, scumbling, wet-into-wet, and sgraffito. I also like to integrate pastels, charcoal, and collage.
I am fortunate to have been able to visit in Florence, Italy almost annually during the past 12 years, for extended periods, sketching both indoors and out. The architecture and tastes of this city have had a profound affect on my art. Other influences include 20th century Northern European and contemporary art from all over the world.
