Meet Deborah Walker of Purely Zen Art in Solana Beach

Today we’d like to introduce you to Deborah Walker.

Let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I was born and raised in Southern California, currently living on the beach in Solana Beach. I have been painting since I was a child, self taught aside from a few art classes in school and college. I have always been drawn to watercolors the softness, flow and spontaneity of this medium. I find I am deeply inspired by the water, the beach and my own personal experiences. I went public with my art several years ago after one of my pieces were shared on fb and my work was well received (to my surprise) I soon after started selling my work on several platforms including Etsy, Amazon, Vida Co, Society 6 and several boutiques throughout Solana Beach and Cardiff. I also have participated in many exhibits, farmers Market and solo exhibits throughout San Diego area. I enjoy working on commissions and hearing my clients stories behind the piece they want me to paint. I have enjoyed teaching small children watercolor as well. I find painting is like a meditation for me. I connect to each piece I paint and feel I am able to express my personality very freely through my work. I am currently working with a design company to create beautiful silk scarves and high end apparel as well. I am open to all requests and look forward to new opportunities this year! When I am not painting I am also a holistic coach and love sharing meditation.

Has it been a smooth road?
Of course, it has been challenging since I left my corporate job and became a single parent of a teen! Although there have been some tough times through the transition, I wouldn’t trade any of it. I have been very fortunate to have had so much support from my local boutiques and community. I could not imagine doing anything else in my life and hope to continue painting, learning and meeting inspiring clients. Some of the challenges have been learning this industry, how it work, what it takes, and IG! Marketing has been a bit of a challenge for me since I do not come from a marketing background, it has been all trial and error and as soon as I learn something new it changes! The second challenge has been maintaining a consistent income in these early stages. I continue to learn, grow and share my work and am grateful everyday for the support I receive. I have bartered for most of the help I receive from marketing acquaintances as well as work that I need but cannot fit into my budget at this stage. My next barter this year is hopefully a website! I wake up everyday an do what I love and as long as I can continue to do this each day, I am grateful and blessed!

We’d love to hear more about your business.
My business is creating and painting watercolors for myself and my clients. I find fulfillment in Joining them in exploring and expressing their passions and experiences, creating the perfect painting that reflects them. I have created many pieces that are in memory of a loved one, celebrating the birth of a child, spirit animals from dragonflies, butterflies, turtles, even a few portraits, cowboy boots and logos. I originally began painting lotus flowers and pieces that reflected my spiritual coaching and passion. Since then I have also moved into my newest bohemian series in 2017, which was a lot of fun. I became most known for them, as so many found aspects of themselves expressed in each of them. I am also known for the ethereal quality of my work, the softness and flow. I have played with abstracts which brought to me a different clientele and I have enjoyed the freedom in them. I am most proud of how humbled this journey has made me. I am also very proud that I have been able to find my own style and been able to share the vibes I feel through my paintings. The best compliment I receive is when clients tell me it makes them feel happy, empowered and inspired. What sets me apart from others is I do not have only one type of subject matter, I am open to trying all styles, subject matters, abstracts, landscape. I will try anything once and enjoy the discovery and happy mistakes in the process!

Is our city a good place to do what you do?
I find living on the beach is an incredibly a inspiration and gift. The calmness I find in the ocean, the openness of the people makes it easy to connect and do what I love. The boutiques and fellow artisans are extremely supportive and more than willing to share their stories and learning with artists of all types. The energy here in my community is one which embraces unique artists, and always willing to share my work. Because of my love of the ocean I would encourage others to come here. Although I think artists are all inspired by different locations, surroundings, and energy. I find the spiritual energy here in Encinitas to be very conducive to artists of all kinds. I do not see anything that I would say should be improved. Of course I would always like to see more small galleries and local events for artists!

Contact Info:

• Address: 153 South Shore Drive
• Website: www.deborahthomsenwalker.com
• Phone: 858-245-3625
• Email: deborahpurelyzen@gmail.com

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