Today we’d like to introduce you to Patti Durbin.
Hi Patti, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always been a creative soul. I grew up making my own clothes as well as pillows, curtains and quilts. However, I did not start creating art until I was in my 60’s and found I still enjoyed the tactile process of cutting things up and putting them back together. I became a mixed media artist and my art has continued to evolve as I keep learning and growing.
My approach to art is organic and intuitive. Many of my pieces are created using mixed media formats that incorporate fabric and other recycled materials. The art emerges naturally as I interact with the materials, allowing each piece to develop its own unique character and story.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I worked full time for many years while raising my children and any thought of creating artwork took a back seat to the demands of life. My artistic endeavors consisted of Halloween costumes, interior design in the house and an occasional piece of clothing. The idea of actually making art did not happen until later in life. My kids grew up and I was blessed to be able to leave a stressful job and I had a chance to tap into the creative side of myself again. I started to play with fabrics and it became an outlet for all of the emotions and feelings and thoughts that had been percolating inside of me waiting to be released.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
E.Y.A.Y.A. stands for Embrace Yourself As You Are, and I work to celebrate the richness of diversity and the joy of self-empowerment through art. I create images using a variety of different mediums (ex. fabric, canvas, paper, copper, leather etc.). I cut up the materials and use a collage format to depict women and men and as well as birds and impressionistic landscapes. My images are diverse, showcasing the uniqueness that come from embracing one’s true self. I believe that art has the ability to shape and enrich lives and messages of positivity often play a role in my art.
Central to my artistic practice is the goal of creating art that resonates deeply with our values. I strive to produce work that not only reflects these themes but also serves as a daily reminder for our collectors of the joy found in expressing their true selves. This personal connection to my work is what drives me and makes art meaningful.
I believe that embracing yourself as you are is the first step towards unlocking your true potential. Through my art and workshops, I hope to inspire others to celebrate their individuality and find joy in their unique experiences.
How do you think about happiness?
I am happy when an art piece that I create resonates with the viewer. They may see themselves and/or the message that a piece conveys and that is a wonderful form of validation. To be able to take an emotion or an image that resides inside of me and bring it to life is a beautiful feeling.
Pricing:
- $5.00 – Notecards
- $35.00 – Matted 8″x10″ prints
- $225.00 Original 10″x20″ framed art
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artbyeyaya.com
- Instagram: art_by_eyaya
