About the Artist: Deborah Scott

I’m Deborah Scott, a contemporary painter whose work delves into the intersections of classical techniques and modern abstraction. Through my art, I explore themes of identity, narrative, and the hidden complexities of human experience. My work blends the traditional, often drawing from Renaissance compositions and symbolism, with modern-day objects and cultural references, challenging viewers to engage with the tension between what is known and what remains hidden.

The Story Behind the Art

Before becoming a full-time artist, I had a successful career in global marketing, where I developed a deep understanding of archetypes and storytelling. These skills now inform my art, where I transform personal stories into visual archetypes that resonate with a global audience. Studying classical painting at the Gage Academy of Art in Seattle gave me the technical foundation to blend figurative art with abstract elements, allowing me to create pieces that push boundaries and provoke thought.

The personal connections I make through my art are incredibly meaningful. Whether I’m working on a commissioned portrait or creating a large narrative piece, my goal is always to uncover the small yet significant moments that shape lives. In my interview with ERA Contemporary‘s Jessica Lund, I discuss how ambiguity plays a central role in my work. By leaving parts of my paintings open to interpretation, I invite viewers to reflect on both the visible and unseen aspects of identity. Read the full interview here.

An oil painting of a girl in the forest with a red hooded jacket like red riding hood, holding a white target bag with the Target logo

Exploring Themes of Identity and Ambiguity

The concept of Johari’s Window—the tension between what we reveal and what remains concealed—runs through much of my work. I’m drawn to the symbolic gestures and iconography of Renaissance painting, where every object and figure has a deeper meaning. In my pieces, I bring that same sense of symbolism but in a modern context, using contemporary brands, objects, and cultural symbols to tell my subjects’ stories. It’s about blending past and present, tradition and disruption.

Deborah totally blew me away with her portrait skills – super professional, remarkable attention to detail, and magical artistic ability. Her skill and professionalism are at the highest echelon of contemporary art. The final portraits are masterpieces. Highly recommend! .
Marwan Naja
Private Equity & Entreprenuer - Genvea, Switzerland
Deborah has a compelling process to conceptualize people and nature beyond what is physically seen. Her work is captivating.
Pamela Belyea
Founder & Exec Director, Gage Academy of Art, Seattle, WA
Deborah Scott's artwork in characterized by complex emotional depths, where each painting tells a story .
Kristina
Editor, Artistic Hub, Zug Switzerland
Deborah's choices within the works invite us to linger before each image, its hidden secrets not fully apparent, as we seek to find its meaning and story within us.
Jessica Lund
Era Contemporary

Exhibitions, Residencies, and Recognition

My art has been exhibited internationally, from The MEAM Museu Europeu d’Art Modern in Barcelona. The Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, to the Titian International Portrait Competition in Italy. I’ve also been fortunate to attend prestigious artist residencies, including the Vermont Studio Center and the Museum of Loss and Renewal in Italy. These experiences have deeply shaped my practice, allowing me to expand my work while connecting with artists and communities around the world.

Some of my recent recognition includes being a finalist for the Circle Foundation for the Arts International Artist of the Year in Lyon, France. Each of these milestones reflects my ongoing commitment to pushing the boundaries of figurative art and abstraction, using my work to reflect the layered, complex nature of human identity

Connect with My Work

I invite you to explore my latest collections and join me in this artistic journey. Whether you’re an art collector, enthusiast, or looking for a commissioned piece, I’m excited to share my story and create something that resonates with you.