Pastel passion on display at the Torch
Deborah Thomas to debut first solo exhibition
MILFORD HAVEN artist Deborah Thomas is preparing to unveil her first solo exhibition this June at the Joanna Field Gallery in the Torch Theatre.
A self-taught pastel painter, Deborah rekindled her love of art later in life after a break of more than twenty years. 'After a long time away from painting, I picked up a pencil and decided to draw again,' she said. 'I experimented with pastel chalks and pencils and quickly fell in love with the level of detail I could achieve.'
Deborah, who cares full-time for her elderly mother Diana, describes painting as a form of escapism. 'I don't paint as often as I'd like to, but when I do, I'm transported into my own little world. I need to be in that creative space to truly work.'
Her interest in art began at Milford Central School and continued briefly during a stint at art college in Newton Abbot, Devon. She cites the British comic strip Andy Capp, created by Reg Smythe, as an early inspiration. 'I used to love sketching Andy Capp—it really got me into drawing as a child.'
After leaving school, Deborah stopped drawing entirely for over two decades. Her return to the craft began with a portrait of Marilyn Monroe, sparking a creative journey that has since produced works such as The Violin, Celtic Barn Owls, White Thunder (a bald eagle), White Iceland Falcon, Beagle, and Mum and Baby Fox.
'Having this exhibition at the Torch Theatre means a lot to me,' she said. 'I'm excited, though a little nervous. I always aim to improve with every piece. I'm my own worst critic, but I do the best I can.'
One of her earliest works—a lion's head—is proudly displayed in the home of her son Gregory, who now lives in Australia.
Deborah Thomas's pastel exhibition will be on display throughout June at the Joanna Field Gallery, Torch Theatre, Milford Haven. The gallery is open during Box Office hours. For more information, visit torchtheatre.co.uk or contact the Box Office on 01646 695267.
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