I have always had a zest for life and have been known as the artsy one in my family which was no surprise after high school taking on a job at a local sign shop in Fredericton. Soon after started my very own graphic design business, Feminine Touch Signs. After many years in the business have since become a full-time artist.

It was not until the passing of my dear grandmother (1998) that I began painting and drawing again. It was at that moment, found my true passion. In 2003, took my very first life drawing class at the Beaverbrook Art Gallery. That is when I met artist Glenn Priestley, now my good friend and mentor. It was then that I fell in love with creating with not only using oil paints but also using graphite and charcoal pencils. When I am asked what medium I prefer, I laugh and say,” Oh I love them all !!! “

In 2012 with Glenn’s encouragement, applied for the Portrait Artist in Residence for the New Brunswick Sports Hall of Fame. Out of thirteen applicants, I received the title of NBSHF artist in residence, draw every year six Inductees for their museum and have held this position to present.

When asked, what if you could not paint? …”If I could not paint…I could not breathe.”

Debb Ferris Bates, Fredericton, N.B., Canada

CONTACT:    debbsart5@gmail.com

ACCOLADES

(2022) Visitors Choice Award Dog Tired” – 3rd Place at Grand Manan Art Gallery

(2021) Visitors Choice Award “Acceptance” – 1st Place at Grand Manan Art Gallery

(2020) Debb’s Cover design of her son Corey was shortlisted out of 880 entries and Debb’s design was 1st semifinalist, in a contest held across Canada for Princess Auto Cover Design contest.

(2019) Debb was shortlisted in a Protest Art Contest, to create a design of the meaning of Viola Desmond’s Story. Furthermore, her image was chosen by the Commemorative Committee, chaired by Henderson Paris to be part of the outdoor murals depicting the historic event of 1946 on the Roseland Theatre. To be revealed in 2020 at the Roseland Theatre in New Glasgow, N.S.

(2018) 2nd place, for Drawing of “Albert” People’s Choice Award at Grand Manan Art Gallery

(2017) Faber Castell GmbH of Germany in collaboration with Karl Lagerfeld held an International Design Contest in 2017 (of what Karl’s studio looked like) Debb’s design placed in the top 10 amongst 1500 applicants and was the only shortlisted member from Canada.

Official Portrait Artist for the NEW BRUNSWICK SPORTS HALL OF FAME (2012-PRESENT)