Debbie Lawrence is a painter based in Brighton, a city she first fell in love with while studying for her Art Foundation. She went on to complete a degree in Multi Media Textiles at Loughborough University, an experimental course that allowed her to nurture her passion for drawing.
For many years, Debbie built a successful freelance career across textiles, fashion, and interiors, working on an array of creative projects. Eventually, she realised her long-held ambition to become a painter, bringing with her a deep understanding of texture, colour, and form that now underpins her vibrant work.
Her process often begins with sketching and photography - her sketchbook is a constant companion. These initial studies evolve in the studio, where she layers acrylic paint to build depth and energy into her canvases:
“Each painting is like a puzzle to solve. I build up the canvas with many layers of acrylic paint - a journey of memories through colour, marks and experiences.”
Living close to the beach, Debbie is drawn to large swimming events on Brighton’s shoreline. Recent works have captured the energy of International Women’s Day and a Pride swim, celebrating the collective spirit of people entering the sea together:
“The sight, sound and energy of 500 people in the sea is so joyous and moving. Everyone is so present in the moment. I love the way bodies merge, the pops of neon colour from swimming hats, and how everything fades into the horizon. It feels as though I’m standing within my painting.”
Debbie explores our deep connection to water and the transformative power of shared human experiences. Her paintings are held in private collections across the UK, Europe, and Australia.